Background: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) remain a significant public health challenge globally, with substantial implications for physical, emotional, and social well-being. Public awareness and knowledge of STDs are critical to prevention and timely treatment, yet stigma and misinformation often hinder efforts to address these diseases effectively. In Gandhinagar, Gujarat, limited data exists regarding public understanding of STDs, necessitating a focused exploration to inform targeted interventions. Material and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 residents of Gandhinagar, Gujarat, to evaluate awareness and knowledge of STDs. Participants were selected through stratified random sampling, ensuring representation across urban and rural areas, age groups, genders, and educational backgrounds. Data collection was carried out using a pre-validated structured questionnaire comprising socio-demographic details, 20 knowledge-based questions, and barriers to STD prevention and care. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and knowledge scores were categorized into four levels: very good, good, fair, and poor. Results: The study included 400 participants, with a balanced gender distribution (52% male, 48% female) and a majority aged 26–35 years (34%). Educational diversity ranged from no formal education (10%) to postgraduate degrees (12%). Most participants (57%) resided in rural areas. The awareness assessment revealed that 80% correctly identified STDs as infections transmitted through sexual contact, and 87% were aware of condoms as a preventive measure. However, knowledge of vaccine availability (73%) and the importance of routine screenings (69%) was moderate. Social stigma emerged as a major barrier for 78% of respondents. Knowledge scores showed that 46% demonstrated very good or good understanding, while 23% and 6% exhibited fair and poor knowledge, respectively. Conclusion: While the study highlights a promising baseline awareness of STDs among the general public in Gandhinagar, significant gaps in technical knowledge and societal stigma remain critical challenges. Comprehensive, culturally sensitive educational campaigns and integration of STD education into school curricula are essential for fostering informed attitudes and proactive behaviors. Addressing these gaps through targeted interventions can significantly reduce the prevalence and stigma of STDs, promoting healthier communities.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a significant public health concern worldwide, affecting millions of individuals annually. These infections, transmitted primarily through sexual contact, pose severe health risks, including infertility, chronic pain, and increased susceptibility to other infections, such as HIV. Despite the availability of effective prevention strategies, diagnostic tools, and treatments, the prevalence of STDs remains high, largely due to persistent gaps in public knowledge, stigma, and inadequate access to healthcare resources. Early awareness and informed actions are pivotal in curbing the spread of STDs and mitigating their long-term impact on individuals and communities [1-6].
Gandhinagar, the capital city of Gujarat, represents a unique setting to assess public knowledge about STDs. As a rapidly developing urban center with diverse socio-economic and educational demographics, Gandhinagar offers insights into the challenges and opportunities for STD awareness in modern Indian society. While urbanization brings better healthcare access, it also exposes individuals to lifestyle changes and risk factors that could contribute to the spread of STDs. Addressing these issues requires a deep understanding of the population’s awareness levels, misconceptions, and attitudes toward STDs and their prevention [7-9].
Existing research highlights that a lack of awareness about STDs often leads to delayed diagnosis, untreated infections, and an increased risk of transmission. Additionally, cultural taboos and stigma surrounding sexual health in India often hinder open discussions and education about STDs. This study aims to bridge these gaps by evaluating the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Gandhinagar residents regarding STDs. By identifying knowledge deficits and barriers to healthcare, this research seeks to provide actionable insights for designing targeted educational interventions and public health strategies [10-13].
This study emphasizes the critical importance of STD education in empowering individuals to make informed decisions, fostering open communication about sexual health, and ultimately reducing the burden of STDs in Gandhinagar and similar urban settings. Through this knowledge assessment, the research aspires to contribute to a more aware and proactive community in addressing the challenges posed by sexually transmitted diseases.
Research Approach
This study adopted a descriptive, cross-sectional design to evaluate the knowledge and awareness of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among the general public in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
Study Area
The study was conducted in Gandhinagar, the capital city of Gujarat, which is characterized by its diverse population, varying socio-economic strata, and access to urban healthcare facilities. This setting was chosen to reflect the urban awareness levels and cultural nuances influencing public understanding of STDs.
Study Duration
The research was carried out over a period of three months, from August to October 2024, ensuring sufficient time for data collection and participant engagement.
Study Population
The study included adult residents (aged 18 years and above) of Gandhinagar who had lived in the city for at least one year. Participants were chosen to represent a broad demographic spectrum, including different age groups, educational backgrounds, occupations, and socio-economic statuses. Both men and women were included to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the community’s knowledge levels.
Sample Size
A sample size of 400 participants was calculated using a 95% confidence level, an estimated 50% awareness prevalence regarding STDs, and a 5% margin of error. An additional 10% was added to account for non-responses or incomplete surveys, ensuring robust and reliable data collection.
Sampling Technique
A stratified random sampling method was employed to ensure representation across various socio-demographic groups, including age, gender, educational level, and area of residence (urban and rural zones within Gandhinagar).
Study Tool
A pre-validated structured questionnaire was used as the primary data collection tool. The questionnaire was divided into two main sections:
Socio-Demographic Details: This section gathered information on participants' age, gender, education level, occupation, marital status, and income level
Knowledge and Awareness Assessment: This section included 20 multiple-choice and true/false questions assessing:
Basic understanding of STDs (e.g., types, causes, and symptoms)
Awareness of prevention strategies, including condom use and vaccination
Knowledge about the availability of diagnostic tests and treatments
Attitudes toward seeking healthcare for STDs and addressing stigma
Barriers to accessing STD-related healthcare and education
Each correct response was awarded one point, with scores categorized as:
Very Good: 16–20 points
Good: 12–15 points
Fair: 8–11 points
Poor: <8 points
Data Collection
Data were collected through both online and in-person surveys:
Online Surveys: Distributed via social media platforms and messaging apps to include tech-savvy participants
In-Person Surveys: Conducted at healthcare facilities, community centers, and public spaces to ensure representation from individuals with limited internet access
Data Analysis
The data were compiled, cleaned, and analyzed using Microsoft Excel and Epi Info V7 software. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were calculated to summarize socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge levels. Chi-square tests were used to explore associations between socio-demographic variables and knowledge scores, with a p-value <0.05 considered statistically significant.
Ethical Considerations
Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the institutional review board. Participant confidentiality and anonymity were strictly maintained throughout the research. Informed consent was obtained from all participants before data collection, and respondents were informed of their right to withdraw from the study at any time. Efforts were made to ensure cultural sensitivity and appropriateness while addressing a potentially stigmatized topic like STDs.
The socio-demographic profile of the 400 study participants reveals a balanced gender distribution, with 52% females and 48% males. The majority of participants were aged 26–35 years (34%), followed by 36–45 years (26%), indicating a significant representation of adults within the reproductive and socially active age groups. Educational attainment was diverse, with 30% holding undergraduate degrees and 27% having completed secondary education, reflecting an informed population. However, 9% of participants had no formal education, highlighting a segment that may face challenges in accessing or comprehending health-related information. Occupations were varied, with 34% in private or government service and 23% engaged in agriculture or labor, underlining a socio-economically diverse group. Most participants were from rural areas (57%), and 36% reported a monthly household income of INR 10,001–20,000, representing the socio-economic realities of Gandhinagar.
Table 1: Socio-Demographic Variables of Study Participants
Variable | Categories | Frequency (n) | Percentage |
Gender | Male | 192 | 48.0 |
Female | 208 | 52.0 | |
Age Group (Years) | 18–25 | 88 | 22.0 |
26–35 | 136 | 34.0 | |
36–45 | 104 | 26.0 | |
46–55 | 52 | 13.0 | |
56 and above | 20 | 5.0 | |
Education Level | No formal education | 36 | 9.0 |
Primary school | 72 | 18.0 | |
Secondary school | 108 | 27.0 | |
Undergraduate degree | 120 | 30.0 | |
Postgraduate degree | 64 | 16.0 | |
Occupation | Agriculture/Labor | 92 | 23.0 |
Homemaker | 80 | 20.0 | |
Service (Private/Government) | 136 | 34.0 | |
Business | 52 | 13.0 | |
Student | 40 | 10.0 | |
Area of Residence | Urban | 172 | 43.0 |
Rural | 228 | 57.0 | |
Monthly Household Income | <10,000 INR | 84 | 21.0 |
10,001–20,000 INR | 144 | 36.0 | |
20,001–40,000 INR | 124 | 31.0 | |
>40,000 INR | 48 | 12.0 |
The knowledge assessment of STDs demonstrated strong awareness among participants in several key areas. Most respondents (80%) correctly identified STDs as infections transmitted through sexual contact, and 83% acknowledged their potential to be life-threatening. The role of condoms in prevention was widely recognized (87%), and 85% understood the importance of regular screenings for early detection. However, awareness of the availability of vaccines, such as the HPV vaccine, was moderate (73%), indicating room for improvement in public education about preventive healthcare measures. Social stigma was identified as a significant barrier to seeking treatment (78%), reflecting the cultural challenges in addressing STDs openly. Encouragingly, 84% supported the inclusion of STD education in schools, demonstrating a readiness to embrace awareness initiatives that can address misconceptions and improve knowledge levels.
The classification of knowledge scores reveals a promising but uneven distribution of awareness among participants. About 32% demonstrated very good knowledge, scoring 16–20, and 39% scored in the good category (12–15), suggesting a majority with a solid understanding of STDs. However, 23% of participants fell into the fair category (8–11), and 6% demonstrated poor knowledge (<8), indicating notable gaps that need to be addressed through targeted educational programs. These findings emphasize the need for public health interventions, particularly aimed at enhancing technical knowledge and reducing stigma, to ensure that all community members are equipped to prevent and address STDs effectively.
The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the awareness, knowledge, and understanding of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among the general public in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. While the results highlight encouraging levels of awareness in certain areas, they also reveal significant gaps that necessitate targeted interventions to bridge the knowledge divide and combat the stigma surrounding STDs.
The demographic analysis underscores the importance of tailoring STD education to a diverse population. The balanced gender distribution and significant representation of participants in the 26–45 age group indicate that the study captured perspectives from a demographic actively engaged in reproductive and healthcare decisions. The educational diversity, with 30% holding undergraduate degrees and 27% completing secondary education, suggests that a substantial proportion of the population is well-positioned to comprehend STD-related information. However, the presence of participants with no formal education (9%) and the predominance of rural residents (57%) highlight the challenges of reaching underprivileged segments with accurate and accessible information about STDs.
Table 2: Awareness and Knowledge Assessment of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Question | Options | Frequency of Correct Responses | Percent |
What are sexually transmitted diseases? | a) Bacterial infections, b) Viral infections, c) Infections spread through sexual contact, d) Genetic disorders | 320 | 80.0 |
What are examples of common STDs? | a) Hypertension, b) Diabetes, c) Syphilis, gonorrhea, HIV, d) Asthma | 308 | 77.0 |
Can STDs be life-threatening? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Only if untreated, d) Rarely | 332 | 83.0 |
What is a common symptom of STDs? | a) Fatigue, b) Joint pain, c) Unusual discharge or sores, d) Increased appetite | 284 | 71.0 |
Are condoms effective in preventing STDs? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Only for viral STDs, d) Rarely | 348 | 87.0 |
What increases the risk of contracting STDs? | a) Unprotected sex, b) Overeating, c) Sharing food, d) Long-distance travel | 300 | 75.0 |
Can STDs be treated effectively? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Only viral ones, d) Rarely | 312 | 78.0 |
What is the most effective way to prevent STDs? | a) Avoid social gatherings, b) Practice safe sex, c) Take antibiotics regularly, d) Maintain a high-protein diet | 288 | 72.0 |
Is regular screening important for STDs? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Only if symptomatic, d) Occasionally | 340 | 85.0 |
Can untreated STDs cause infertility? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Rarely, d) Only in men | 304 | 76.0 |
Are vaccines available for some STDs? | a) No, b) Yes (e.g., HPV vaccine), c) Only for HIV, d) Rarely | 292 | 73.0 |
Can sharing needles transmit STDs? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Only for bacterial STDs, d) Occasionally | 280 | 70.0 |
Is stigma a barrier to seeking treatment? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Occasionally, d) Only in rural areas | 312 | 78.0 |
Should STD education be included in schools? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Only for high school students, d) Rarely | 336 | 84.0 |
Can multiple partners increase STD risk? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Only if unprotected, d) Rarely | 316 | 79.0 |
Is early treatment effective for STDs? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Only for bacterial STDs, d) Rarely | 310 | 77.5 |
What is a significant barrier to STD awareness? | a) Language barriers, b) Social stigma, c) Lack of healthcare facilities, d) Lack of media coverage | 300 | 75.0 |
Are STD diagnostic tests readily available? | a) No, b) Yes, c) Only in urban areas, d) Occasionally | 296 | 74.0 |
Can STD awareness reduce spread? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Only marginally, d) Rarely | 342 | 85.5 |
Is financial constraint a barrier to STD treatment? | a) Yes, b) No, c) Occasionally, d) Rarely | 280 | 70.0 |
Table 3: Knowledge Score Classification
Knowledge Category | Score Range | Frequency (n) | Percentage |
Very Good | 16–20 | 128 | 32.0 |
Good | 12–15 | 156 | 39.0 |
Fair | 8–11 | 92 | 23.0 |
Poor | <8 | 24 | 6.0 |
The awareness assessment reveals that the public holds a foundational understanding of STDs, as evidenced by the high percentage of participants who correctly identified STDs as infections transmitted through sexual contact (80%) and recognized their potential to be life-threatening (83%). The strong awareness of preventive measures, such as the role of condoms (87%) and the importance of regular screenings (85%), reflects the success of past public health initiatives. However, moderate awareness of the availability of vaccines, such as the HPV vaccine (73%), underscores the need for more robust educational campaigns to highlight all preventive measures.
Social stigma was identified as a major barrier to seeking treatment by 78% of participants, highlighting the cultural and societal challenges associated with addressing STDs. Despite this, the overwhelming support for including STD education in schools (84%) indicates a progressive attitude and willingness to address the issue at its roots. Such an approach can help normalize discussions around STDs, dismantle stigma, and foster a more informed and proactive community.
The knowledge score distribution paints a complex picture of STD awareness in Gandhinagar. While 71% of participants fell into the very good or good knowledge categories, demonstrating a foundational understanding, the presence of 23% in the fair category and 6% in the poor category signals the existence of significant knowledge gaps. These gaps may stem from limited access to accurate information, especially among rural and less-educated populations. This variability in awareness underscores the need for tailored interventions to ensure equitable dissemination of knowledge across all segments of society.
The findings indicate that barriers such as social stigma, cultural taboos, and lack of awareness about modern preventive measures, like vaccines, continue to hinder effective management and prevention of STDs. Addressing these barriers requires a multifaceted approach, including community-based education, enhanced access to healthcare services, and the involvement of local leaders to foster acceptance and understanding. Leveraging digital platforms for awareness campaigns, particularly in urban and tech-savvy populations, can further amplify the reach and impact of these efforts.
Public Health Significance
This study underscores the critical need for comprehensive, culturally sensitive, and accessible STD education programs in Gandhinagar. By normalizing discussions around sexual health, improving access to preventive measures, and addressing stigma, public health initiatives can empower individuals to make informed decisions and seek timely care. Integration of STD education into school curriculums and community health programs can play a pivotal role in fostering long-term behavioral change and reducing the burden of STDs [14,15].
Future Directions
Future research should focus on assessing the impact of educational interventions on knowledge and behavior change, particularly in underprivileged and rural communities. Qualitative studies exploring cultural attitudes and barriers to STD prevention and care would provide deeper insights into the societal factors influencing awareness levels. Additionally, longitudinal studies tracking the effectiveness of school-based education and community campaigns can offer evidence-based strategies for scaling up STD awareness initiatives.
In conclusion, this study reveals a strong baseline of awareness regarding sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in Gandhinagar, but significant gaps in technical knowledge and societal stigma persist, hindering effective prevention and treatment. While the public demonstrates good understanding of key preventive measures such as condom use and the importance of screenings, knowledge of vaccines and the availability of timely treatment remains moderate. The prevalent social stigma and cultural barriers further exacerbate the challenges. Targeted, culturally sensitive, and inclusive educational campaigns, particularly in schools and rural communities, are essential to addressing these gaps and reducing stigma, thereby empowering individuals to make informed health decisions and ultimately improving public health outcomes.
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