Awareness, knowledge and behavior of high school students concerning sexually transmitted infections

Abstract

Introduction. This paper presents the results of a research conducted among senior high school students in northern Kosovo and Metohija on their knowledge about sexually transmitted infections, emphasizing their awareness and sources of information, as well as their sexual behavior and use of contraceptives. Material and Methods. The survey of senior high school students was done using a previously prepared anonymous questionnaire which was followed by statistical processing of fully completed questionnaires. Results. The research included students aged 17 to 19; 63% were females and 37% males; 35.8% were sexually active. The correct definition of sexually transmitted infections was identified by 49%. School was the source of information on these infections for 45.6% of students and biology class for 45.7%. There were 40.6% sexually active male respondents and 33.0% of female (on average, 18 years old). Of the surveyed students of both sexes, 40.6% became sexually active at the age of 17. Condom use was reported by 49% of respondents of both sexes, whereas 50.8% of sexually active students always used condoms. There were 38.7% (38.9% girls, 38.4% boys) of students who used condoms for protection against sexually transmitted infections, and 58.1% of them personally decided whether to use them. Conclusion. The majority of our respondents were able to identify the correct definition of sexually transmitted infections, and they most often heard of the human immunodeficiency virus/ acquired immune deficiency syndrome. School was their most common source of information, biology class, and a considerable number were informed about this issue on the Internet. The majority of sexually active girls did not use any contraceptives. School curricula and parent-child relationships should have a greater impact on the youth's awareness of reproductive health.