Knowledge and risk perception of sexually transmitted infections and relevant health care services among high school students in the Platfontein San community, Northern Cape Province, South Africa.

Background: The historically marginalized Platfontein San youths have a high rate of teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge and perception of male and female school-going youths in Platfontein of STIs and HIV/AIDS, and the health care services that are available to them.

Participants And Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey with a sample of 201 learners in grades 6-12 at the !Xunkwesa Combined School in Platfontein was conducted in July 2007.