HIV and Aids-related knowledge amongst inmates of Scottish prisons

THE HIV and Aids knowledge level of a representa tive sample of inmates (559) from eight Scottish pri sons was assessed using a 48-item questionnaire. Overall, inmates were highly knowledgeable. They were aware of basic high-risk sexual and drug be haviour. They knew that the virus was not trans mitted by routine social contact. They were also aware of most methods of reducing the risk of trans mission. However, they showed less understanding about issues concerning the HIV antibody test. Many believed it safe to share items of injecting equipment such as cooking-up spoons and there was uncer tainty about the effectiveness of bleach solution as a sterilising agent for injecting equipment. They be lieved that a high risk of transmission is likely if bitten, or involved in a fight with someone who is HIV seropositive. The results are discussed in re lation to the educational needs of prison inmates.