Why nursing students have sex without condom? A study in the university of Palermo

Evaluation of the knowledge and behavioral risks related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among the student population of the degree course in nursing at the University of Palermo.

An anonymous online a survey was provided to students that investigate to socio-demographic information, sexual habits and the level of knowledge of the STIs. Multivariable logistic regression was performed, considering it as a dependent variable "Do you permanently have unprotected sex (without a condom)? Yes", in order to evaluate the role of the variables of the questionnaire. Results are expressed as adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR).

The sample size consists of 405. The average age of the sample is 21.65 years (standard deviation±3.24). The analysis shows that the risk of having permanently unprotected sex (without condom) is significantly associated with the following variables: "Are you engaged or single? Engaged" (aOR 3.24, 95% CI 1.66 - 6.33); "Sexual orientation. Homosexual or Bisexual (aOR 4.45, 95% CI 1.30 - 15.29); "Have you occasionally had unprotected sex (without a condom)? Yes" (aOR 5.09, 95% CI 2.69 - 9.62); "How would you define your knowledge of sexually transmitted diseases? Good" (aOR 2.07, 95% CI 1.05 - 4.08); "How would you define your knowledge about contraceptive methods? Good" (aOR 2.51, 95% CI 1.23 - 5.15); "Have you or have you ever had a sexually transmitted disease? Yes (aOR 4.43, 95% CI 1.71 - 11.53); "Do you know that men can also undergo HPV vaccination? Yes" (aOR 2.57, 95% CI 1.03 - 6.40); "Age. As the unit increase" (aOR 1.14, 95% CI 1.02 - 1.26).

These results highlight the importance of involving university students in programs aimed at improving the knowledge in terms of STIs and increase of Sexual and reproductive health. Further, because STIs prevention is based mainly on human behavior, tailored intervention is needed especially because behavior change remains a complex challenge.