Knowledge and attitude of Lab staff towards AIDS in Gilan

AIDS is considered to be among the most common cause of mortality worldwide. It has no documented therapy or vaccine, however, it is preventable. With respect to the importance of the knowledge of Lab staff towards the transmission routes and preventive techniques, present study was carried out on Lab staff of educational hospitals affiliated to Gilan Medical Science University in order to survey their knowledge and attitude towards AIDS. This cross sectional study was carried out 72 subjects using a self-administered questionnaire including: demographic data, knowledge assessment (27 multiple choices questions) and attitude assessment (17 questions). Data analysis was performed by Pearson’s correlation coefficient, variance and t-test analysis. Good knowledge towards the nature of AIDS and routes of transmission were reported in 69.4% and 55.6% of the subjects. Regarding the prevention method, 16.7% had good, 66.7% had moderate and 16.7% had poor knowledge. Positive attitude towards taking care of HIV/AIDS patients was revealed to be 91.7%. Attitude of the samples increased with knowledge improvement however, it did not reach the significant level. Knowledge of the subjects towards the nature of AIDS and the routes of transmission is quite acceptable however, it is desirable in preventive methods. Continuous education is highly recommended.