HIV-related knowledge, attitudes and sexual risk behaviours among Montenegrin youth

Abstract

Context: Montenegro has a low-level HIV epidemic, but the majority of registered HIV cases have been diagnosed in patients between the ages of 20- to 34-years-old. The aim of this study was to assess the level of HIV-related knowledge, attitudes towards people living with HIV (PLHIV) and sexual behaviour among youth aged 15-24 in Montenegro. Methods: A nationally representative cross-sectional survey assessed 1164 young people aged 15-24. The data were collected in December 2009 using face-to-face interviewing for topics concerning HIV-related awareness and attitudes, whereas a self-administered questionnaire covered topics related to sexual experiences and behaviour. Results: In general, the level of HIV-related knowledge and accepting attitudes towards people living with HIV were unsatisfactory. Of the surveyed population, slightly more than half reported current sexual activity. The reported level of sexual risk behaviour diff ered signifi cantly according to participant sex and region. Early sexual initiation and not using condoms during the fi rst episodes of sexual intercourse were found to be signifi cant predictors of more frequent sexual risk behaviour. Conclusions: Despite the relatively high awareness pertaining to routes of HIV transmission, the surveyed population reported misconceptions related to HIV transmission. A significant proportion of young people have engaged in risky sexual behaviours. These results strongly support the introduction of secondary school curriculum related to HIV/STI prevention as well other risk behaviours observed in this age cohort.