Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception Toward Risk of HIV/AIDS: A Descriptive Study at Universitas Muhammadiyah Magelang

Abstract

Experiences or negative attitudes towards HIV, low knowledge and perception are also factor that can influence the emergence of stigma and discrimination. The primary objective of this study is to assessing the knowledge, attitude and perception among Faculty of Health Science students of Universitas Muhammadiyah Magelang towards risk of HIV/AIDS. Methods: The data was collected by questionnaire from students in five department Faculty of Health Science. Samples of 165 students using the proportional method. Each respondent's scores were totalled and individual average scale scores were analysed using descriptive analysis. Result: 53.34% of Faculty of Health Sciences students have the level of knowledge towards risk of HIV and AIDS was moderate (range 51-74). 62.5% of students have a positive attitude (0.63) and 51.5% of students have a negative perception. There is significant correlation between knowledge and attitude. However, no significant correlation was found between knowledge and perception. Conclusions: Increase knowledge about HIV/AIDS through education and training since attending college, providing sufficient and up-to-date information about HIV/AIDS so as to be able to prepare health science faculty students to treat patients with HIV/AIDS and reduce negative stigma and discrimination.