title: Knowledge and perceptions of HIV-infected patients regarding HIV transmission and treatment in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
abstract: Patient education concerning HIV and antiretroviral (ARV) medications is important for optimal outcomes. The authors assessed the knowledge and perceptions of HIV-infected patients in an ARV education program in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Of 185 patients, 64 (35%) receiving ARV medications, nearly 80% correctly answered questions regarding HIV. Correct responses were associated with higher education (P < .05) and longer duration of HIV diagnosis (P < .05). A lack of knowledge was observed in 40% of respondents who believed HIV and AIDS were the same and 70% of respondents who believed ARV medications cured HIV. Greater embarrassment of living with HIV was associated with female gender (P < .05) and lower education (P < .05). Patients were concerned over ARV medication use (27%) and its side effects (38%). The study population's knowledge of HIV/AIDS and ARV medications, perceived stigmatization, and areas of knowledge deficits underscore the need for effective patient education programs addressing poorly understood issues around HIV/AIDS.
authors.affiliation: Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
authors.forename: Don
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Hoang
authors.affiliation: Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
authors.forename: An T
authors.initials: AT
authors.lastname: Dinh
authors.affiliation: University College London, London, UK.
authors.forename: Nora
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Groce
authors.affiliation: Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA lynn.sullivan@yale.edu.
authors.forename: Lynn E
authors.initials: LE
authors.lastname: Sullivan
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology / Q000635:transmission*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D019359:Knowledge; D008297:Male; D013240:Stereotyping; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014744:Vietnam; D055815:Young Adult