A cross-sectional study on the HIV-related knowledge, attitudes and practices of male youth having sex with men in Metro Manila

Jose Ronilo  G. Juangco,; Beatriz  Z. Arellano,; Aliza Mariel  B. Armamento,; Donita  N.  Arnesto,; John Paul  S. Arquines,; Joanna Mae  S. Avanceña,; Erica Charleen  M. Baluan,; Axl Rose  B. Bangit,; Reshan  D. Baoas,; Fatima Mae  B. Barateta,; Angela Carmina  Q. Barroquillo,; Calvin EJ  R. Bautista,; Shaila  P. Bautista,

A cross-sectional study on the HIV-related knowledge, attitudes and practices of male youth having sex with men in Metro Manila

Abstract:

Introduction The Philippines continues to see an increasing trend in diagnosed cases of HIV. The predominant population of males having sex with men (MSM) is the 25-34 years age group, but trends show an increasing incidence in younger populations. This study aimed to determine the participants’ HIV/AIDS related knowledge, attitudes and practices and its relationships with the sociodemographic factors of youth MSM in Metro Manila. Methods The researchers used an analytic, cross-sectional design using a self-administered questionnaire. The survey tool consisted on 24 items on knowledge and 12 on attitudes. Respondents were classified into “inadequate” and “adequate” knowledge, and “poor” and “good” attitudes for the analysis. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 251 respondents. Results The mean age of the respondents was 22 ± 1.7 years. Most of the respondents had high HIV knowledge and good attitudes towards PLHIV but still engaged in risky sexual practices. Those who had undergone HIV testing were significantly more likely to have good knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS. With regards to attitudes, those not in a relationship were significantly more likely to have positive attitudes towards PLHIV and HIV/AIDS. Conclusion HIV testing status positively influences HIV/AIDS-related knowledge while being single positively influences attitudes towards PLHIV and HIV/AIDS. No significant findings were found between age, educational attainment and religious affiliation with knowledge and attitudes.

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