EFFECTIVENESS OF A HEALTH EDUCATIONAL PACKAGE FOR AIDS PREVENTION AMONG ADOLESCENT SCHOOL CHILDREN

A randomised, controlled, community based intervention trial was undertaken to assess the effectiveness of a Health Education Programme (HEP) for HIV infection and AIDS among school children at Pune. Sample size was calculated on the basis of conventional Type I and Type II errors. School children studying in classes 9th to 12th in six different schools (n=1102) formed the study material. Baseline assessment for knowledge for AIDS/HIV was undertaken and used for formulating the Health education Programme Package. Randomisation was done so as to allocate five schools into trial group (n=803) and one school into control group (n=299). Blinding was also ensured to reduce bias. The study revealed that the HEP was very effective in improving the knowledge, the difference being highly significant as compared to control group. The effect was specially well marked for girls in school level (OR=4.76) followed by boys intermediate level (OR=3.11); there was clear evidence of statistical effect modification as regards this 'sex and educational class' differential (Woolfs'chi square=11.82, p < 0.0001). The study also revealed that the maximum aceceptability of programme was among girls studying in girls school (Stratum OR =2.25) followed by boys in boys school (OR=1.50) compared to students in co-educational system (linear trend chi square=9.35, p < 0.01). Certain recommendations for health education for HIV/AIDS among school children have been submitted.