Post-exposure prophylaxis awareness for HIV in India

Abstract Aim The study was designed and conducted to evaluate awareness and attitude towards the use of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for accidental exposure to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among dental students in India. Method A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a self-developed close-ended questionnaire containing 10 questions on HIV and AIDS-related knowledge, sources of information and methods needed to educate dental students regarding HIV. Sample The sample consisted of 600 undergraduate dental students in dental colleges from six different dental colleges, spread over in cities in National Capital Region of Delhi (NCR), India. 63.5% were females and 36.5% were males – all within the age range of 18–22 years. Analysis Responses were exposed to descriptive statistical analysis using SPSS version 18. Results were expressed as means, standard deviations and percentage frequencies on inter-item as well as combined score basis with graphical representation. Results The study highlighted that the undergraduate students have only moderate level knowledge about PEP for HIV/AIDS with a mean awareness score of 57.94%. About two-third level of disagreement was obtained about the fact that PEP-related information was taught at the college level and that anti-PEP drugs were available at clinics. Conclusion Suggestive measures in the direction of greater emphasis on HIV/AIDS and its PEP in the dental curriculum and training emerge necessary with three quarter agreement about revision in teaching. With only 60% sample willing to treat HIV patients, a greater sensitivity about this much-stigmatized population must also be ensured through an exposure to diverse patient population and regulation of ethical practices for dentists.