Knowledge on and attitude towards Sexually Transmitted Infections: A qualitative study of people with physical disabilities in a peri-urban district of Ghana

Abstract

Persons with disabilities are at higher risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), however, they are often excluded from programmes targeting groups at high risk of STIs. This study explored the level of knowledge and attitude of persons with physical disabilities toward Sexually Transmitted Infections in the Jachie Community in Ashanti Region of Ghana. This was a descriptive study using a qualitative approach and conducting in-depth interview among 17 participants who were purposively selected. The data were transcribed, analysed, and presented in themes that emerged. Most of the participants mentioned that STIs are transmitted mainly through unprotected sex, kissing, blood transfusion and cuts from an infected blade or razor. The participants knew STIs such as HIV/AIDS, gonorrhoea, syphilis and candidiasis. Also, participants also resorted to using the internet as a source to get information about STIs. They intermittently visit the hospital for check-up when they see any abnormalities with their reproductive health. The use of condoms as a way of preventing STIs was low among the participants. This was as a result of the belief that one gets STI only if he/she has multiple sexual partners. Its imperative to make information about STI more accessible to the disabled community. This will reduce the risk of STIs among persons with disability.

Keywords

• sexually transmitted infections
• knowledge
• attitude
• persons with disabilities