AIDS knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and behaviors in Kansas

Clearly, medical professionals and educators must mobilize in supporting personal, professional and public AIDS education efforts. AIDS health education should continue to emphasize facts and dispel myths about risk associated with blood donation, casual contact, mosquitos and sharing eating utensils. Messages should encourage counseling, testing for those at risk and resource referrals, and should urge compassion. The noted differences in demographic categories indicate a need to expand sampling within sub-populations, specifically non-white populations, younger adults and medical professionals. Emphasis on gathering further, more specific behavioral information should be incorporated into community-based prevention programs. Continued assessment of sources of information, referral for AIDS-related services and prevalent AIDS policies should be incorporated statewide.