Understanding Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Adolescents towards STI Prevention: A Study in Bugembe Health Center IV, Jinja District

Abstract

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) remain a significant public health concern globally, particularly among adolescents. Despite efforts to combat STIs, rates continue to rise, especially in developed countries like Sweden, Germany, France, and Britain. This study assesses the knowledge, attitude, and practices of adolescents aged 17–24 towards STI prevention at Bugembe Health Center IV, Jinja District, Uganda. Through a descriptive study involving 138 participants, data was collected using questionnaires. Results revealed that while 55.8% of adolescents demonstrated good knowledge and 58.7% exhibited positive attitudes towards STI prevention, there were poor practices observed, including low condom usage (59.4%) and engagement in risky sexual behaviors such as having multiple partners (23.1%). The study underscores the need for intensified sensitization campaigns, youth-friendly reproductive health sessions, and increased condom distribution at lower levels to enhance STI prevention among adolescents. Such interventions are crucial for reducing STI prevalence and promoting adolescent sexual health. Keywords: Adolescents, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), Knowledge, Attitude, Practices, Bugembe Health Center IV, Jinja District, Uganda.