Before and After Covid-19: What Has Changed in HIV Knowledge Level?

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) transmission is a major global health concern.
• Public knowledge is crucial for preventing HIV transmission.
• The Covid-19 pandemic may have influenced public awareness of other health issues, including HIV/AIDS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess changes in public knowledge of HIV/AIDS before and after the Covid-19 pandemic.
• To evaluate the impact of the pandemic on HIV awareness in Turkey.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to 618 adults (149 pre-pandemic, 469 post-pandemic) in Turkey.
• The questionnaire assessed knowledge about HIV/AIDS through seven questions.
• Participant responses were analyzed based on gender, marital status, and education level, comparing pre- and post-pandemic data.

Main Results:

• Overall correct response rates for HIV knowledge increased from 57.62% pre-pandemic to 73.77% post-pandemic.
• Knowledge gains were more pronounced in males (47.31% to 78.57%) compared to females (59.29% to 79.63%).
• Individuals with higher education, especially master's degrees (41.56% to 83.44%), showed the most significant improvement.

Conclusions:

• The Covid-19 pandemic was associated with an increase in public knowledge about HIV/AIDS.
• The pandemic's impact on HIV knowledge varied across demographic groups, with greater increases observed in men and single individuals.
• Educational attainment significantly correlated with the extent of knowledge improvement post-pandemic.