Evaluation of the level of knowledge of secondary school students at the Abbé KOSA Institute on the transmission and prevention measures of HIV/AIDS

Introduction HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health concern, particularly in regions with high prevalence rates, such as Dungu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the HIV prevalence was 12.8% in 2011. Adolescents are a crucial group in combating this pandemic, yet their knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention remains underexplored. Purpose This study aims to assess the level of knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS transmission and preventive measures among students aged 15 and older at the Institut Abbé KOSA in Dungu. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire distributed to a stratified random sample of 492 students. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, with chi-square tests applied to assess knowledge differences based on demographic variables. Results Overall, 70% of students demonstrated a general understanding of HIV/AIDS, with strong knowledge of sexual transmission routes (85%) but weak knowledge of non-sexual transmission routes, such as blood transfusion (45%). Misconceptions were prevalent, with 37% believing that mosquito bites can transmit HIV and 29% considering prayer a valid prevention method. Gender differences were notable, with boys exhibiting lower knowledge levels regarding sexual transmission (78%) compared to girls (90%). Conclusion Despite a fair general understanding of HIV/AIDS, significant knowledge gaps and persistent misconceptions highlight the need for targeted interventions. Incorporating comprehensive HIV/AIDS education into school curricula and community-based programs could enhance prevention efforts and address specific misconceptions.