Attitudes, knowledge, and practices of Turkish dentists regarding HIV/AIDS: a cross-sectional study

HIV/AIDS remains a global public health concern with considerable amounts of stigma impacting patient care. Dentists, as primary care providers, play a crucial role in providing healthcare to people living with HIV (PLWH). However, there are gaps in knowledge and attitudes among dentists regarding HIV/AIDS, resulting in discrimination and barriers to care.

This national cross-sectional study assessed the knowledge and attitudes of Turkish dentists toward HIV/AIDS using an adapted and validated questionnaire. The questionnaire included sections on discriminatory attitudes and behaviors, scientific knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS, and infection control practices. Data were collected from November to December 2024 via an online survey distributed by the Turkish Dental Association. The target sample size was 381 participants, and 383 were included in the study. Since all eligible participants were enrolled, a response rate is not applicable. In total, the data from 383 dentists were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Among participants, 43.6% reported hesitation to treat PLWH due to fear or insufficient training. Dentists in the private sector were more likely to express hesitation than those in the public sector (OR = 2.05, p = 0.002). Knowledge gaps were evident: 41.5% were unaware of the HIV window period, with dentists unaware of this period significantly more likely to work in the private sector (OR = 2.15, p = 0.001). Female dentists were more likely to state the importance of knowing a patient's HIV status (OR = 0.42, p = 0.004), while male dentists more often reported patient inquiries about infection control (OR = 1.62, p = 0.032).

Despite generally good adherence to infection control protocols, significant gaps in knowledge and attitudes persist among Turkish dentists. Findings from multivariate analyses underscore that sector of employment and gender significantly influence dentists' attitudes and knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS. Targeted educational interventions are needed to reduce stigma and improve the quality of dental care for PLWH.