Comparison of the Knowledge of Atatürk and Ondokuz Mayıs University Dental Clinical Students About HIV/AIDS

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study is to evaluate the knowledge levels of Atatürk and Ondokuz Mayıs University Faculty of Dentistry clinical students about Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) comparatively. Methods: A questionnaire consisting of 10 questions was prepared to evaluate the dentistry students' awareness and attitudes towards HIV / AIDS. The data were collected through face-to-face interviews with the students. This descriptive study was conducted on Atatürk and Ondokuz Mayıs University students between 01 July-31 December 2019. In order to evaluate the students' awareness and attitudes towards HIV / AIDS, a questionnaire form consisting of multiple choice and fill-in-the-blank questions was used. Statistical analysis of the data obtained was made using chi-square comparison tests; A value of p <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Although the level of awareness was higher among all participants, it was observed that grade 4 students had less information than grade 5 students (p<0.05). There was no significant difference between the answers given by both university students (p>0.05). In the survey conducted at Ondokuz Mayıs University, 48% of the 4th grade and 73% of the 5th grade answered the question about the complications of AIDS correctly. In the questionnaire in Atatürk University, in the question of whether HIV or HIV virus can be isolated from AIDS, sperm response 70% from 4th grade students and 84% from 5th grade students were received. Conclusion: It is concluded that most students are inadequate about how HIV/AIDS is transmitted, and the lack of knowledge and resources on HIV/AIDS triggers inaccuracy. According to these findings, effective training programs should be prepared especially for clinical students to create positive attitudes for HIV/AIDS patients. © 2021, Selcuk University. All rights reserved.