Knowledge and awareness of preexposure and postexposure prophylaxis of HIV infection among medical and dental health professionals.

Background: HIV is a growing infectious condition around the world. An increased awareness and knowledge regarding preexposure and postexposure regimens for HIV is required, especially among the healthcare professionals including students.

Aim: The present study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of preexposure and postexposure prophylaxis of HIV infection among medical and dental health professionals in India.

Materials and methods: This cross-sectional, observational questionnaire-based survey was conducted on 500 study participants comprised of healthcare professionals including physicians, dentist, nurses, physiotherapists, and students (both undergraduate and postgraduates). A prevalidated questionnaire was distributed via electronic mail to all the subjects, and responses were recorded in a Microsoft Excel worksheet. One-way ANOVA was applied for analyzing any statistical significance between knowledge regarding preexposure and postexposure prophylaxis. Inclusion criteria included subjects above 18 years of age and those who were licensed practitioners. Exclusion criteria included subjects with incomplete response and nonlicensed practitioner.

Results: Statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) was observed on comparing responses between preexposure and postexposure prophylaxis. However, very less knowledge and awareness was noted for preexposure prophylaxis in the studied sample.

Conclusion: There appears to be less knowledge and awareness concerning availability of preexposure medications among Indian practitioners. Hence, an appropriate modification in curriculum and exposure to practitioners is of primary importance at the present time.