Knowledge And Attitudes Of Farmers To HIV Infection/AIDS

AIDS-related knowledge and attitudes among farmers were investigated. The sample comprised of 297 farmers selected from Bende Local Government Area of Abia State through stratified random sampling technique. Data which were collected through interview schedule, when analyzed, revealed [among others] that: (1) about 95% of the farmers have heard about HIV/AIDS, but only 66. 6% have seen AIDS patients (2) there is a gap in knowledge, namely: (i) ignorance about many non-sexual mode of HIV/AIDS transmission.(ii) misconception that HIV/AIDS is transmitted through physical body contact or eating withAIDS patients. (iii) belief that moderate sexual activities with few partners will prevent AIDS and (iv) superstitious belief that AIDS is a curse from God or witches (3) majority [80-95%] of farmers exhibit negative attitudes towards HIV/AIDS and people living with HIV. (4) Attitude to HIV/AIDS is not a function of farmers’ gender or family structure but differencesobserved in their attitudes to HIV/AIDS was in favour of farmers aged 20-50years and those who attained a minimum of Junior Secondary School education. Consequently, it was recommended that the on-going AIDS campaigns should be invigorated and incorporate the dissemination of more comprehensive information that will dissuade farmers from aspects of their behavior that put them at risk of HIV infection. Rural community-based educationalprogrammes that will result in a positive change in farmers’ attitudes to HIV/AIDS andpeople living with AIDS are urgently needed. Relevant information on HIV transmission andcontrol should be published in local dialects and Extension Agents should educate ruralpeople on the danger posed by HIV infection/AIDS epidemics