MODE OF TRANSMISSION OF HIV/AIDS: PERCEPTION OF DENTAL PATIENTS IN A NIGERIAN TEACHING HOSPITAL.

BACKGROUND: Despite the fact that the possible modes of transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are well established, there still abound many misconceptions, which contribute to the persistence of social stigmatization of those living with the virus. AIM: To assess the perception of some dental patients on the possible modes of transmission of HIV in order to identify areas of misconceptions. DESIGN OF THE STUDY: A prospective study. SETTING: A dental centre located within a teaching hospital in Nigeria. MATERIALS & METHODS: A prospective study of 212 dental patients was undertaken using a structured questionnaire to assess the perception of respondents on possible mode of transmission of HIV. RESULTS: Majority of the respondents agreed that HIV could be transmitted through sexual means (96.2%), blood transfusion (96.7%) and sharing of sharp objects (92.5%). A few of the respondents believed that HIV can be transmitted through sharing of drinking cups (9.4%) and mosquito bites (13.6%). A greater percentage of those with higher educational qualifications agreed that the use of unsterilized dental instruments may transmit the virus, which was statistically significant (p< .002) and a lower percentage of the more educated respondents agreed that sharing of drinking cup can transmit the virus (p<.000). CONCLUSION: Despite the generally good knowledge of the possible modes of transmission of HIV, there are still some misconceptions, which may encourage stigmatization of those living with HIV, which could lead to people unwilling to consent and go for voluntary counseling and testing.