A Study of the Effectiveness of AIDS Health Education Interventions among the Adolescent Population of Singapore

JT Quek, SC Li
Correspondence: Dr Li Shu Chuen, phalisc@nus.edu.sg

ABSTRACT
Aim of Study This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of existing AIDS health education interventions in Singapore amongst the adolescent population of Singapore. By identifying specific target groups that lack knowledge and information regarding HIV, it is hoped that suggestions may be provided towards increasing the effectiveness of these interventions.
Method A cross-sectional survey using a self-administered questionnaire of randomly selected adolescents between the ages of 13 and 19 years was performed to assess their knowledge of HIV and their opinions and awareness of HIV education in Singapore.
Results A total of 400 adolescents of various backgrounds were surveyed. In general, the subjects surveyed possessed reasonably good knowledge about HIV/AIDS, with an average score of 77.4% (SD = 15.8%). However, the results also showed areas of knowledge deficiency and misconception prevalent among those surveyed. Subgroup analysis showed that adolescents from low-income families, relatively less academically successful schools and those of younger ages knew significantly less than other adolescents. In terms of the awareness of HIV/AIDS education and information, the percentage of the subjects who could recognise any of the three commonly issued pamphlets or poster or who knew of any telephone numbers to call to receive information on HIV and AIDS was low. Less than 40% of those surveyed felt that enough awareness was being created within the public regarding AIDS.
Conclusion It can be concluded that most adolescents surveyed felt that they are inadequately educated regarding HIV and AIDS. The results would certain target groups using the appropriate media in future educational intervention.

Keywords: HIV, AIDS, adolescents, health education, Singapore
Singapore Med J 2002; 43(7): 359-364