The knowledge, attitude and behaviour towards safe sex practices in the prevention of sexually transmitted infections among young adults in Maldives / Vishah Waheed

Abstract

Sexually transmitted infections are a major concern in Maldives and given the likely engagement of young adults in risky sexual behaviour, it is possible that the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections among young adults is particularly high in Maldives. This research aimed at studying the knowledge, attitude and behaviour of young adults towards safe sex practices. It was conducted among students of Villa college who are between 18 and 25 years of age. Both qualitative and quantitative methodology was employed in the study by using a KAP survey and locus group discussions along with explaining the finding with theory of planned behaviour. The results of the study showed that the mean age of the participants was 21.60, with majority (65.2%) being females. It was found that the students were aware of the basics of STIs and safe sex practices, however focus group discussions suggested that adequate information was not available. While attitudes towards safe sex practices were mainly found to be positive among the participants, negative attitude was observed among a significant proportion of participants with risky sexual behaviour. Despite having the basic knowledge and positive attitude, the participants did not necessarily correlate them with condom usage, most likely due to other disadvantages associated with condom usage. The qualitative data suggest the concern social stigma as a challenge for usage of safe sex practices and testing for STIs. It was further shown from the lbcus groups that given the proper knowledge, attitude and control over their behaviour, it is likely that the participants would engage in healthy sexual behaviour. Public health interventions, sex education in schools and health promotion is recommended for better dissemination of knowledge and developing positive attitudes with the goal of preventing Sexually transmitted infections.