Impact of health education on knowledge and attitudes of Saudi paramedical students toward HIV/AIDS

Objectives: To assess the impact of health education on the knowledge and attitudes of paramedical students in Saudi Arabia toward HIV/AIDS. Methods: We carried out an interventional study on a sample selected from students of health institutes and health colleges in Saudi Arabia during the calendar year 2002-2003. Results: The intervention shows a positive effect on students' knowledge regarding means of transmission of HIV and means of protection from HIV/AIDS. Furthermore, it has a positive impact on students' attitudes toward accepting discussion of AIDS topics with others, acceptance of home care for HIV infected family member and acceptance of HIV-infected individual's right at work. Preference of confidentiality was also significantly increased after intervention. Conclusion: Health education intervention has a positive impact on students' knowledge and attitudes towards HIV/AIDS and we recommend a nationwide health education program on HIV/AIDS.