Knowledge and attitudes of Texas dentists concerning AIDS

A total of 1,200 practicing Texas dentists were surveyed concerning AIDS knowledge, attitudes and behaviors. The results were analyzed and an analysis of variance indicated an inverse relationship between city population and avoidance behavior towards AIDS by dentists. Additionally, dentists in practice over 10 years manifested higher avoidance characteristics towards AIDS. Increased knowledge did not correlate with less avoidance behavior. The results of this study indicate that additional methods of educating dentists concerning HIV infection and AIDS, infection control, and the role of health care professionals concerning patients with infectious diseases are needed.