Publication:

An analysis of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome-related awareness among masses

Background Prevention is better than cure. This age-old phrase holds very true in the case of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS). So, adequate HIV and AIDS related education for young people is considered as an important prevention strategy. The main aim of the study was to analyze the awareness regarding HIV/AIDS among masses. The other objectives were to review and analyze the existing awareness campaigns regarding the need for establishment of new awareness campaigns.

Methods The study was conducted among a total of 80 subjects through a questionnaire comprising of questions about HIV/AIDS.

Results It was observed that the awareness among subjects with the non-scientific educational background was less than those with the scientific educational background. The analysis of attempted questionnaires showed that the knowledge of Indian subjects lacked considerably in certain basic areas related to HIV/AIDS. This indicates that the awareness measures and strategies running in India are ineffective and inadequate. Furthermore, it was observed that counseling by teachers, friends, and parents/families in Indians was lesser than that of subjects from the USA.

Conclusion Lack of awareness among masses has pointed toward the need to promote more awareness campaigns. It has been concluded that there is a need of providing comprehensive and detailed information regarding the preventive measures to masses, especially young people not only through educational institutions but also through families and friends.