RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Continuous spreading of HIV infection may be due to lack of knowledge, especially among young people. It is important to monitor level of knowledge and risk behaviours especially in young people to set up appropriate preventative and informative campaigns. METHODS: We assessed knowledge of HIV infection and risk factors in a sample of students at the "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, using an anonymous multiple-choice questionnaire. RESULTS: Two-hundred and sixteen medical students attending the first year at "Magna Graecia" University (age: 18-20 years) were prescribed an anonymous multiple-choice questionnaire. Knowledge of HIV infection was scarce in a significant percentage of students. They were often practicing risk behaviours at risk for acquisition of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections. CONCLUSION: This study shows that preventative and informative campaigns are urgently needed in earlier stage of adolescence to avoid acquisition of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases.