Awareness, knowledge and attitudes towards HIV/AIDS among long distance truck drivers in Kano State, Nigeria

5^th International Conference on HIV/AIDS, STDs and STIs

November 13-14, 2017 Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Mohammed Mustapha Namadi

Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J AIDS Clin Res

Abstract :

The long distance truck drivers are crucial in spreading HIV infection in a short time because of their high risk behaviour. The present study examines awareness, knowledge and attitude towards HIV/AIDS among long distance truck drivers in Kano State. The sample for the study comprised of 200 long distance truck drivers stopping over and spending nights at Kwanar Dangora (Kafin Maiyaki) and Dakatsalle towns of Kano State during the months of June and August, 2015. The sample was selected using the purposive sampling technique. The long distance truck drivers were invited to participate in the study and those who consent for interview were taken to separate enclosure in order to maintain privacy and confidentiality. Data were collected on the level of awareness and knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS and attitude towards people living with HIV/AIDS using a structured questionnaire. The results of the study reveal serious gaps in the respondents� knowledge about HIV/AIDS, especially its modes of transmission, signs /symptoms and prevention. Awareness about signs and symptoms of AIDS and knowledge about other route of HIV transmission and other preventive measures were found to be very low. The respondents also have a negative attitude towards persons living with HIV/AIDS.