title: Sexual behaviors and awareness of sexually transmitted infections among Chinese university students.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  This study investigated the current state of attitudes, behaviors, and knowledge concerning sex and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among Chinese university students.
  
  
  METHODS
  A cross-sectional anonymous university intranet-based survey was given to students attending the Shantou University, Guangdong, China using a 28-item questionnaire.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Of 3425 website visitors, 1030 university students completed the survey, of which 80% were between 20 and 25 years of age, 76% considered pre-marital sex acceptable, 21% had had sexual intercourse, and 45% of sexually active students had engaged in oral sex, anal intercourse, or sex with strangers. Students had limited knowledge and awareness about common STIs, symptoms, and complications. Three percent of the sexually active students reported having had STIs and another 8% were not sure whether they had or not. Most students had misconceptions about transmission and prevention of STIs. The internet was the main information resource for 76% of students.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Despite having more open attitudes and behaviors towards sex, students' STI knowledge and awareness of STI risks was considerably limited, raising concerns about a likely rise in STI incidence. Prior knowledge of STIs had no significant influence. Targeted educational measures such as online education and counseling via Chinese websites and social media, and the provision of safer sex and STI-related information by health experts to university students are suggested.
authors: The Research Center of Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, P.R. China. danguizhang@stu.edu.cn.
authors: Dangui
authors: D
authors: Zhang
authors: Hui
authors: H
authors: Pan
authors: Binglin
authors: B
authors: Cui
authors: Frieda
authors: F
authors: Law
authors: Jeremy
authors: J
authors: Farrar
authors: William
authors: W
authors: Ba-Thein
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002681:China; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000635:transmission*; D013334:Students; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014495:Universities; D055815:Young Adult