Assessment of Knowledge and Prevention Strategies of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) among Undergraduate Students of Public Universities in Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

The health burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among undergraduate students in public universities in Rivers State, Nigeria, is significant and multifaceted. This study therefore investigated knowledge of and prevention strategies for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among undergraduate students in public universities in Rivers State. The investigation was guided by three research questions and three null hypotheses. A descriptive survey was conducted using a questionnaire to assess STI knowledge and preventive practices among year-one and year-two medical and nursing undergraduate students at two tertiary institutions in Rivers State. A total of 400 participants were randomly selected. Descriptive analyses using means and standard deviations, as well as z-test statistics, were conducted using SPSS version 25.0; statistical significance was set at a p-value of ≤ 0.05. The findings revealed that the undergraduate students demonstrated a moderate level of knowledge regarding STIs, with notable variations across specific domains such as symptoms, modes of transmission, and treatment. Furthermore, hypothesis testing indicated no significant differences in the mean scores of male and female students regarding STI knowledge, prevention strategies, and factors influencing knowledge and preventive practices. Based on these findings, the study concluded that awareness of consistent condom uses and other preventive behaviours remained relatively low, highlighting gaps in the practical application of prevention strategies. Consequently, it was recommended, among other measures, that medical practitioners periodically update students’ knowledge of STIs, including prevention strategies, symptoms, and treatment options.