HIV infection and Norwegian general practitioners: does fear affect knowledge?

Area of Science:

• Medical Science
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a significant global health concern.
• Accurate knowledge of HIV transmission is crucial for healthcare professionals, particularly general practitioners (GPs).
• Understanding factors influencing GP knowledge is essential for targeted educational interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the structure (dimensionality) of knowledge regarding HIV transmission among Norwegian GPs.
• To identify factors influencing the extent of GPs' knowledge about HIV transmission routes.

Main Methods:

• A mailed questionnaire survey was administered to 578 general practitioners across three Norwegian counties.
• Factor analysis was used to identify dimensions of HIV transmission knowledge.
• Analysis of variance and multiple classification analysis were employed to assess the influence of independent variables on knowledge.

Main Results:

• Four dimensions of HIV transmission knowledge were identified, with 'body fluids' and 'needle sticks' being most significant.
• 45% of GPs were uncertain about ways HIV is NOT transmitted via body fluids.
• GP knowledge about transmission via body fluids was associated with county, confidence in information, and fear of contracting HIV; only confidence and fear were significant predictors.

Conclusions:

• Knowledge about HIV transmission among Norwegian GPs is multi-dimensional.
• Confidence in official information and personal fear of HIV infection are key determinants of GP knowledge accuracy.
• Targeted strategies addressing confidence and fear may enhance GP understanding of HIV transmission.