Compreensão dos adolescentes sobre a prevenção e transmissão das infecções sexualmente transmissíveis

Abstract

Objective: This study sought to analyze the understanding of adolescents from a public school about the prevention and transmission of Sexually Transmitted Infections, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. Methods: Field study with a quantitative approach that sought to investigate adolescents' knowledge about Sexually Transmitted Infections and Human Immunodeficiency Virus / Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, as well as forms of prevention, transmission medium, and source of information. The population consisted of students duly enrolled in public institutions, located in Caruaru city. Based on the application of a questionnaire to students from the 7th, 8th, 9th grade of elementary school II and 1st, 2nd and 3rd year of high school, aged 12 to 18 years. Results: 265 questionnaires were applied, it was found that most of the sample were females with 163 (62%), the predominant age range was 14 to 16 with 171 (64%). When asked about the transmission ways of HIV, 147 (55%) answered that HIV may be acquired through items such as towels, enamels, among others, 118 (45%) claim previously known about forms of infections. Conclusion: Given the school setting, which the survey was conducted, it arises a statement that educational activities should be performed. For this action to become effective, it is necessary to know the thoughts of adolescents, their reality, myths and taboos regarding sexuality so that you can address it in a way that contributes to their development and healthy sexual growth. KEYWORDS: Adolescent; Sexually Transmitted Diseases; Human immunodeficiency virus; Sexuality;