An exploration of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) knowledge gaps among male migrant workers in Singapore

Hildegard Ramsden
2012 Journal of AIDS and HIV Research  
The general objective of this study is to provide a rapid assessment of HIV knowledge gaps among male migrant workers (MMWs) in Singapore. A cross-sectional pilot study was conducted in June 2011, in Singapore. A 14 multiple choice closed question self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information on current HIV knowledge among MMWs. Sixty seven MMWs participated in the survey and a total of 58 valid questionnaires were collected. Findings are reported by grouping survey responses
more » ... f current knowledge of HIV. Although 84.5% of respondents have an awareness of HIV/AIDS, participants generally scored poorly in the survey and beliefs about the causes of HIV and HIV prevention strategies. 30.7% of those surveyed responded correctly to questions on HIV/AIDS knowledge, whilst 31.7% responded incorrectly and 37.7% of participants were unsure how to respond. The results indicate that there are significant HIV/AIDS knowledge gaps among male migrant workers in Singapore. We recommend that further research is required which could lead to the development of culturally appropriate peer-based HIV prevention programs, which should aim at both equipping this vulnerable group of individuals with necessary knowledge about HIV/AIDS and correcting misconceptions and misunderstandings.
doi:10.5897/jahr11.061 fatcat:elfobl6awnbmdg3naqtkpacehu