Abstract

This study examined the adolescents’ knowledge and attitude towards regular healthcare as a way of improving
HIV/STDs testing and treatment among secondary school students in Oyo State, Nigeria. This study employed
the descriptive research design type. Two hundred and twenty participants selected through multi-stage stratified
random sampling technique were used for the study. One main instrument was used in collecting data. Data was
analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient and T-test. Results showed a significant
relationship between students’ knowledge and attitude to regular healthcare on the testing and treatment of
HIV/STDs. Also, a significant difference in the knowledge while no significant difference was found in the
attitude of regular healthcare as a factor in the testing and treatment of HIV/STDs among private and public
secondary schools’ students. A gender difference in attitude toward regular healthcare was observed but not in
knowledge. Also, no significant differences were found in the knowledge and attitude towards HIV/STDs
Testing and Treatment of single parenting and intact home (both parents) respondents. On the basis of the
findings, it was established that while the majority of secondary students had heard about HIV/STDs, their
knowledge was inadequate. Thus, schools have a role to play in facilitating the access of young people to
necessary reproductive health services and to link education and services so that students may bridge knowledge
and attitudes with action.

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