Assess the level of knowledge regarding sexually transmitted diseases

Abstract

Background:Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) continue to pose a significant public health challenge worldwide, especially among adolescents and young adults. College students are particularly vulnerable due to factors such as limited knowledge, risky sexual behaviours, and lack of access to accurate sexual health information. Inadequate awareness about STDs can lead to delayed diagnosis, complications, and further transmission. Assessing the level of knowledge among students is essential to identify educational gaps and to plan targeted interventions.

Objectives:To assess the level of knowledge regarding sexually transmitted diseases among students and to find out an association between knowledge of students regarding sexually transmitted diseases with their selected socio-demographic variables.

Materials and Methods:A quantitative research approach with a descriptive research design was used to assess the level of knowledge regarding sexually transmitted diseases among B.Sc. Nursing students of 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 7th semesters in selected colleges of Vadodara. A total of 100 participants were selected using a convenient sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured knowledge questionnaire designed to assess the students' awareness and understanding of sexually transmitted diseases. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics to interpret the level of knowledge and identify any significant patterns or gaps.

Result:The study assessed STD knowledge among 100 BSc Nursing students from the 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 7th semesters in Vadodara. Most participants were female (77%), aged 18–23, and unmarried (98%). While 89% had heard about STDs, only 11% had good knowledge; 48% had average, and 41% had poor knowledge. Significant associations were found between knowledge level and semester of study, as well as source of information—students from higher semesters and those informed by healthcare providers performed better. Other factors like age, gender, and marital status showed no significant impact. The findings highlight a need for stronger STD education in nursing curricula.

Conclusion:The study revealed that while a majority of BSc Nursing students were aware of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), their depth of knowledge varied significantly. Only a small percentage demonstrated good knowledge, whereas a large proportion had either average or poor understanding. Notably, students in higher semesters and those who received information from healthcare providers exhibited better awareness, highlighting the influence of academic progression and credible sources. However, other demographic variables showed no significant association with knowledge levels. These findings underscore the need to strengthen STD-related education and promote the use of reliable sources to enhance knowledge and prepare students for competent clinical practice