The effectiveness of School-based Education Program on HIV / AIDS Knowledge and Behaviour Among Secondary School Students Provided by Health Visitors in Cyprus.

Introduction: The Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Recent studies show an increase in HIV / AIDS cases worldwide, especially among young people aged 15 and over. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the degree of effectiveness o of Schoolbased education program of HIV / AIDS targeting students of High/Technical Schools in Cyprus. More specifically, the study aimed to assess whether the HIV / AIDS health education program improves knowledge about transmission and non-transmission modes and prevention measures. Methodology: A purposively sample was used included 498 students with ages of 15-16 years old (N=487 (224 boys and 263 girls), response rate=97.8%), with an anonymous semi structured questionnaire before and after the education intervention in eleven lyceums and two technical schools in Cyprus. Chi-square and t-test were used to compare differences before and after the intervention. Results: The findings showed that there is the statistical significant difference (p=.000) in the mean transmission-non transmission knowledge scores (M=6.2931 before / M=7.8523 after) and ways of prevention for the two groups πρόληψης (M=3.7806 before / M=4.4746 after) before and after the intervention. Conclusions: The findings suggest that Health promotion program of HIV/AIDS can equip students with knowledge for preventative themselves against HIV/AIDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]