Knowledge and practices regarding HIV/AIDS prevention among Vietnamese seafarers working on transoceanic in 2023

Abstract

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted through direct interviews with 384 Vietnamese seafarers to describe the status about their knowledge, practices and associated factors to HIV/AIDS prevention practices of HIV/AIDS prevention while at sea. Results showed that: the rate of seafarers with general knowledge of HIV/AIDS prevention was 58.6%. Seafarers have good knowledge of the causes, transmission routes, ways to detect people infected with HIV/AIDS and infection prevention measures. Seafarers have limited knowledge of HIV medications and common signs of HIV/AIDS. Practice: 63.1% of seafarers are faithful with 1 sexual partner, 63.3% use condoms when having sex with their partners, 9.6% of seafarers share toothbrushes on board, 24.5% share razors, 11.9% share nail clippers, 40.4% of seafarers have been tested for HIV. Associated factors that increase the risk of sharing sharp objects among seafarers include working experience less than or equal to 5 years, low educational level, ranking as a sailor, being unmarried. Seafarers with a higher educational level consistently adhere to condom use during sexual relations with partners. Appropriate communication measures are needed at seaports and on ships to improve knowledge and practice on HIV/AIDS prevention as well as other sexually transmitted diseases among seafarers.