Improving the knowledge of the HIV/AIDS community in Surabaya city for self-detection of HIV oral manifestations

Abstract

Introduction: Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) remains a significant problem in Indonesia. As individuals with compromised immune systems, PLWHA are susceptible to various opportunistic infectious diseases. Awareness and specific knowledge regarding these conditions are important in facilitating prompt treatment and reduce further morbidity and complication in PLWHA. However, many PLWHA lack essential information about these conditions, describing the importance of designing and education an intervention strategy to increase PLWHA knowledge regarding the oral manifestations of HIV/AIDS. The purpose of this study is to analyze the knowledge of PLWHA about the oral manifestations of HIV/AIDS after virtual learning (V.L) intervention. Methods: A pre- and post-test study was conducted with 30 members of the Mahameru Foundation, a support group for PLWHA in Surabaya. The subjects participated in interactive sessions covering various manifestations of HIV/AIDS, disease etiology, attitudes towards proper treatment, and techniques for self-check screenings. Results: The subjects demonstrated increased knowledge of HIV/AIDS oral manifestations and improved skills in self-detecting oral abnormalities related to HIV/AIDS. Conclusion: Educational interventions through interactive sessions and self-check screenings can enhance PLWHA's knowledge and awareness of oral health, aiding in preventing the disease's progression. This approach supports the government's objective of achieving three zeros: zero discrimination, zero AIDS-related deaths, and zero new cases.