Awareness of HIV/AIDS Among Pregnant Women

Abstract

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is considered a potentially life-threatening virus that damages the immune system. HIV infection can lead to AIDS (or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), which is a complex illness with a wide range of complications and symptoms. AIDS is the final stage of HIV. When individuals reach this stage, they are at high risk for opportunistic infections due to their severely damaged immune system, which could lead to death. It affects everyone, including pregnant women. The primary objective of this study is to determine the level of awareness of HIV/AIDS among pregnant women in Manga District, Tagbilaran City. This study used a descriptive normative survey method with 19-item awareness questions to 36 expectant mothers. The findings revealed that the respondents were strongly aware of HIV/AIDS. There was a significant relationship between age and educational attainment to the level of HIV/AIDS awareness among pregnant mothers in Manga District. An HIV/AIDS Advocacy program should be implemented and cascaded to all women regardless of age, sex, and educational level to help prevent the spread of the disease.