ABSTRACT

This study investigated undergraduate perception on the prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases in university of Benin. Four research questions were raised to act as guide to the study. The questions bothered on level of undergraduates' knowledge of transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, undergraduates' perception on preventive measures of sexually transmitted diseases, belief undergraduate have regarding sexually transmitted diseases and how males and females differ in their perception of sexually transmitted diseases.

A survey research design was employed in carrying out the study. The population of this study comprises of 16 faculties of the University of Benin. The stratified sampling technique was used to get a sample size of 146 students. The research Instrument used was a self structured questionnaire used to obtain data from the sample population. The validity of the instrument was carried out by the supervisor and two other lecturers from the Department of Health, Safety and Environmental Education. Data collected was analyzed using Descriptive statistics such as simple percentage and frequency table.

The findings revealed that sexually transmitted diseases cannot be transmitted by sharing towels, toilet seats or by sharing needles. Instead it can be spread by having sex with multiple sexual partners and having sex without the use of a condom. Based on the study, it was concluded that sexually transmitted diseases can be spread by kissing, not using condom during sex, having more than one sexual partner and also engaging in oral sex. In line with the findings, the following recommendation were made: Government should work together with schools and communities to increase sexually transmitted diseases awareness. Also, the Nigeria government should provide free access to contraceptives and condoms.