Akpotuzor Josephine O, Akpan Patience A and Akwiwu Euphoria C
The Human Immune deficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) pandemic have had a profound effect on the health and social life of people in Nigeria. This study was aimed at assessing the perception level of voluntary counseling/ testing and knowledge/ awareness of HIV/AIDS among the adult population in Ugep town of Cross-River State of Nigeria. One hundred and sixty (160) male and female residents of Ugep metropolis between the ages of 17 and 60 were surveyed. A 20-item structured questionnaire was administered to participants. Analysis of the responses showed that one hundred and twenty four (77.5%) understands what HIV/ AIDS is while 98.1% are aware of the routes of transmission. Sixty five percent and 98.8% respectively have a good knowledge of the signs/symptoms and prevention of the disease. Only 15.6% of the respondents are aware of the availability of medical treatment for HIV/AIDS. Sixty seven (47.5%) respondents affirmed that they will stigmatize people living with HIV/AIDS. One hundred and forty nine (93.1%) were aware of Voluntary Testing and Counselling (VCT) of which ninety five (59.4%) had undergone one. A minority group of the respondents 63(39.4%) believed that life would still be worth living if they are sero positive. Eighty eight (61.2%) said they cannot disclose their HIV status to anyone while sixty five (40.6%) believed that VCT can bring about an HIV-free society. Sixty five (40.6%) respondents have never gone for VCT for several reasons. Alarmingly, 20 respondents said they would commit suicide if they were to be sero-positive while 5 would spread the virus to others. The level of knowledge and awareness of HIV/AIDS is yet to achieve desired goals and impact. There is need for urgent intervention by the relevant bodies to educate and enlighten the populace.
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