A SURVEY OF NORTH HAMPSHIRE STUDENTS KNOWLEDGE OF HIV AND RELATED ISSUES

This report describes some of the findings of a survey of British 16-1 9-year-olds in tertiary education [N=3665], focusing on their knowledg e of HIV risk behaviours. The analysis is presented by gender and over all response rates. The aim is to provide evidence to health educators on the effectiveness of existing information campaigns. Therefore par ticular emphasis has been given to the areas where respondents were 'n ot sure' or were incorrect about the risks of an activity. The survey method was a self-report questionnaire which covered a range of topics , including knowledge about HIV risk behaviours. Most young adults are relatively well informed about the risks associated with unprotected sexual activity, but that a relatively high proportion seemed to be un certain about other activities which may risk HIV transmission. Furthe rmore, approximately one third of respondents were 'unsure' about some myths concerning HIV vectors, e.g, infection via lavatory seats and s kin contact with others.