Investigation on AIDS Awareness and Testing Willingness among Freshmen in 4 Higher Vocational Colleges in Chongqing City

¹ Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing, 401331, China
² Chongqing Second Foreign Language School, Chongqing, 400065, China

^* Corresponding author’s e-mail: 75259442@qq.com

Abstract

Objectives: To understand the knowledge and testing willingness of new students in vocational colleges in Chongqing City towards HIV/AIDS, and provide reference for HIV/AIDS prevention education for vocational college students. Methods: A combined method of cluster sampling and random sampling was used to conduct the survey. In November 2022, four vocational colleges in Chongqing City were selected, and classes of new students were randomly chosen to participate in the survey. In addition, the questionnaire was distributed to new students of the four colleges through WeChat public platform, and students voluntarily responded to the survey. Results: The awareness rate of HIV/AIDS-related knowledge among new students in the four vocational colleges was 67.53% (938/1389), and the awareness rate among students in medical majors was 78.59% (P<0.05). Female students had a significantly higher testing willingness after engaging in high-risk sexual behavior than male students, with statistical differences (P<0.05). Male students had a more friendly attitude towards AIDS patients compared to female students (P<0.05). Conclusion: The awareness rate of AIDS among freshmen in vocational colleges in Chongqing is lower than in other regions of the country. Carrying out various forms of AIDS prevention and education in colleges plays a significant role in improving students’ awareness of AIDS. By strengthening knowledge contents such as “Knowing that one cannot judge whether a person is infected with AIDS based on their appearance”, the testing rate for AIDS can be increased. Male students have a higher level of friendliness towards people with AIDS compared to female students. Destigmatizing AIDS and guiding university students to adopt the correct attitude towards AIDS patients are also key focuses of education.