Conocimientos y medidas preventivas frente a infecciones de transmisión sexual en adolescentes peruanos andinos

Objective To evaluate the level of knowledge and preventive measures used against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) in Andean adolescents. Methods Quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study, with 200 school adolescents from the Andean districts of the Junín region-Peru. Knowledge of concepts, forms of transmission and preventive measures before STIs was recorded through a questionnaire validated by expert judgment in a pilot test. Results 82% of adolescents answered incorrectly about the concept of STIs, but 89% responded correctly about the definition of AIDS. More than 85% know that sexual intercourse is the main form of STI transmission and that sexual intercourse, blood transfusions and mother-to-child transmission are the main forms of HIV transmission; however, 70% of adolescents did not respond correctly about the correct sequence of condom use. Conclusion The level of knowledge of Andean adolescents in Peru regarding sexually transmitted infections is intermediate to low; Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen public policies for the prevention of STIs in this vulnerable population.