Awareness and Knowledge of Sexually Transmitted Infections among Patients Attending Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background & Objective: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are the infections which are mainly transmitted through sexual intercourse and it is major public health problem and a leading cause of morbidity in developing countries. This study aimed to assess awareness and knowledge of Sexually Transmitted Infections among STIs patients attending Tertiary Care Centre. Methods: A Hospital‑based cross‑sectional study design was conducted among 194 STIs patients from Tertiary Care Centre Varanasi between 15 to 60 years old during August 2022 to March 2023. Results: Knowledge of only specific STIs (HIV/AIDS) was found highest 96.4% whereas lower percentages were noted for rest others STIs. Family/Parents were poor (8.8%) sources of information whereas Tv/radio were found primary source (78.9). Almost all of the respondent were aware about multiple partners can enhance risk of getting STIs and 43.3% were aware that only few STIs are curable. Interpretation & conclusions: This study revealed that there was a low percentage of participants who were adequately aware of the common types, symptoms, and complications of STIs. Key words: Awareness, Knowledge, Sexually transmitted infections