[Knowledge and risk perception on HIV/AIDS by Brazilian population, 1998 and 2005].
OBJECTIVE
To describe the level of knowledge and risk perception on HIV/AIDS of the Brazilian Population.


METHODS
Data base from a national survey on sexual behavior and HIV/AIDS risk perception in the Brazilian population, in 1998 and 2005, were used. A synthetic indicator was used, composed by nine questions on the level of knowledge and risk perception on the forms of transmission of the virus and risk situations, according to population subgroups.


RESULTS
Men increased their level of knowledge in the period, reaching the same information level of women. Among youngsters, there was no significant increase in knowledge, and the difference between sexes was absent in this dimension. Regarding risk perception, there was an increase in the proportion of those that declared they were not under risk of HIV/AIDS contamination.


CONCLUSIONS
Despite the increase in the level of general knowledge, the study's results indicate the need for actions and programs of HIV/AIDS prevention in the general population and, especially, with youngsters.
Ferreira
Maria Paula
MP
Fundação Seade, São Paulo, Brasil, SP. mpferrei@seade.gov.br
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology / Q000635:transmission; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001938:Brazil; D017280:Condoms; D004812:Epidemiologic Methods; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology / Q000635:transmission*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010465:Perception; D012309:Risk-Taking; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012747:Sexual Partners; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D014505:Urban Population; D055815:Young Adult