Awareness on HIV/AIDS amongst residents of two Local Government Areas in Lagos State
Background: This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, beliefs and practices in two local governments in Lagos State on HIV/AIDS. A baseline survey was done five years previously. Methods: A cross sectional survey of two local government areas in Lagos State, Nigeria was conducted. Study participants were selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. A total of 400 participants were surveyed using a structured, pre-tested, interviewer-administered questionnaire over a two-week period. Data entry and analysis were carried out using Epi-Info 6 and Microsoft excel. Results: Over 90% of participants had heard about HIV/AIDS with the most frequent source of information being the mass media (radio and television). It was observed that a great proportion of respondents (93.3%) were of the belief that HIV/AIDS exists. However, less than 50% attested to the use of condoms with all sex partners. A higher educational level appeared to be significantly associated with greater awareness about HIV/AIDS (P<0.05) Conclusion: The enormous level of awareness about HIV and AIDS did not appear to translate into safer sexual practices. There is need for a multi-pronged approach in the dissemination of information on the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS.