HIV-related knowledge among individuals living in rural Appalachian Ohio

Background: The number of individuals being diagnosed with HIV in the rural U.S. is increasing; however, little is known about HIV prevention and testing knowledge among these individuals. Purpose: To assess the level of overall HIV knowledge and HIV testing knowledge among adults living in rural Appalachian Ohio. Methods: Data were collected in 2009 from 301 individuals who resided in Appalachian Ohio. Results: Ninety-four percent of the participants were White, 49.5% female, 39.9% employed, and the mean age was 30.3 years (SD = 13.7). Fifty-five percent (n = 168) of the sample had been tested for HIV at least once during their lifetime and 32.9% (n = 99) had been tested within the past 12 months. For overall HIV knowledge, the mean score was 10.4/16, or 65%. For specific HIV questions, the mean score was 7.5/10 or 75% and for HIV testing the mean scores was 3.0/5.0 or 60%. Individuals who reported knowing someone with HIV/AIDS (n = 89), had significantly higher overall knowledge compared to those who have never known anyone with the disease t(255) = 2.13, p = .03. Finally, individuals aged 18 to 34 (n = 198) had significantly lower scores on overall knowledge t(287) = 4.30, p = .00, compared to individuals who were 35+ (n = 91). Conclusion: Misconceptions about HIV persist among adults living in Appalachian Ohio; specifically among individuals aged 18-34 who may be at higher risk for HIV infection. Public health practitioners need to increase educational efforts targeted at young rural individuals.