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Journal of Public Health

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01-04-2020 | Human Immunodeficiency Virus | Original Article

Knowledge and attitudes on HIV/AIDS and HIV testing among basic school students in Tamale Metropolis, Ghana

Authors: Alfred Brown Kwarteng, Yulia Skokova, Williams Agyemang-Duah

Published in: Journal of Public Health | Issue 2/2020

Abstract

Objective

Knowledge about HIV/AIDS and HIV testing is essential towards reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS among students. However, there is a paucity of empirical studies regarding students’ knowledge and attitudes on HIV/AIDS and HIV testing in Ghana, a gap this qualitative study seeks to fill.

Methods

Eight focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted among 60 students from the various class levels at the Junior High Schools in Tamale Metropolis in the Northern Region of Ghana. Data were analyzed with the use of a content analytical framework and presented based on an a posteriori inductive reduction approach.

Results

The study revealed a good knowledge about HIV/AIDS and HIV testing among students. Although some study participants showed positive attitudes toward HIV-infected people, others, however, exhibited poor attitudes toward HIV-infected people. In addition, the study participants showed negative attitudes and feelings toward HIV testing and counseling.

Conclusion

The study findings highlight the need to educate students about the friendly nature of HIV testing and counseling so as to demonstrate the utmost respect and care to people infected with HIV/AIDS in society. This effort will contribute immensely towards meeting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3, which seeks to ensure good health and well-being for all at all ages by 2030.

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Title: Knowledge and attitudes on HIV/AIDS and HIV testing among basic school students in Tamale Metropolis, Ghana
Authors: Alfred Brown Kwarteng
Yulia Skokova
Williams Agyemang-Duah
Publication date: 01-04-2020
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keywords: Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
Published in: Journal of Public Health / Issue 2/2020
Print ISSN: 2198-1833
Electronic ISSN: 1613-2238
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10389-019-01049-5

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Knowledge and attitudes on HIV/AIDS and HIV testing among basic school students in Tamale Metropolis, Ghana

Abstract

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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