Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Lebanese university students related to sexually transmitted diseases: a cross-sectional study

Vanessa Sleiman, Sahar Obeid, Hala Sacre, Pascale Salameh, Souheil Hallit, Rabih Hallit

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Aim To appraise Lebanese university students’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in March and April 2020. A total of 402 students (67.9% wom-en) from ten universities located in different Lebanese re-gions were recruited through convenient sampling. Results Pursuing a major in non-health sciences compared with a major in health sciences (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.08) was significantly associated with lower odds of having better knowledge of STDs. Older age (aOR = 1.09) was significantly associated with higher odds of having better knowledge of STDs. Having good vs poor knowledge (aOR = 3.88) was significantly associated with higher odds of having favorable attitudes toward STDs, whereas pursuing a major in non-health sciences compared with a major in health sciences (aOR = 0.28) was significantly associated with lower odds of having favorable attitudes toward STDs. Women compared with men (aOR = 2.21) had higher odds of having healthier practices related to STDs. Attitude did not mediate the association between knowledge and practice. Conclusion Attitude did not significantly mediate the association between knowledge and practice. Therefore, educational programs and awareness campaigns should be implemented in secondary schools and among vulner-able non-medical students. Such efforts can help students identify the symptoms of STDs, seek medical attention, and make informed decisions to protect themselves.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)213-221
Number of pages9
JournalCroatian Medical Journal
Volume64
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Aug 2023
Externally publishedYes

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