Knowledge of AIDS, use of condoms and results of counselling subjects with asymptomatic HIV2 infection in The Gambia.

ABSTRACT

PIP: Questionnaires given to people from rural and urban populations seen during a serological survey in The Gambia revealed knowledge about AIDS and HIV infection to be limited. Data was received on 1,898 subjects aged at least 15 years. While only 17% of women in rural areas were aware of the existence of AIDS, males, those with secondary education, and those in urban areas demonstrated better understanding of the disease. 8%, however had used condoms over the past 12 months, with 1/2 doing so on less than 5 occasions. Secondary education generally signaled greater likelihood of condom use among respondents. A counsellor met with 31 asymptomatic, HIV-positive subjects in their homes on 2 occasions during the survey. Failing to generate behavior modifications, information provided by the counsellor largely produced anxiety. By the 2nd interview, only 1 subject had discussed AIDS and HIV infection with the partner and began using condoms. Health education programs targeted to underserved rural areas, women, and those without secondary education are severely needed. Radio, used as the key mode of message dissemination, is challenged on the basis of its audience being potentially limited due to gender and/or socioeconomic factors. Limited education, limited knowledge of AIDS in the community as a whole, sociocultural and attitudinal factors fostering social rejection of the seropositive individual, and gaining acceptability for the condom are potential obstacles to effective counselling for improved education and behavioral change. Joint sessions with partners, group sessions, and repeated exposure to a counsellor are suggested approaches. Research is suggested for alternative approaches.