Knowledge of HIV prevention and willingness to collaborate in vaginal microbicides trials-survey of Nigerian gynecologists.

Background: Gynecologists being the primary care physicians and advocates for women sexual and reproductive health are critical in delivering messages on effective intervention to prevent heterosexual HIV transmission. Their knowledge and opinions on the effectiveness of HIV prevention technologies may influence the acceptance and use of these technologies among women at risk.

Methods: A cross sectional survey was self-administered to Nigerian gynecologist attending an Annual Scientific conference; "Kanon Dabo" between November 17 and 21, 2009, in Kano, Nigeria. Their opinions on various HIV prevention strategies as well as their willingness to collaborate on vaginal microbicides trials were assessed on a Likert scale. The mean scores of the responses were tested using student's T-test. Statistical analyses were done with STATA version 11, College Station, Texas, USA.

Results: Of the 100 questionnaires distributed to the participants at the conference, we had a survey response rate of 74.0%. The mean age of the participants was 42.38 +/- 6.67 years with range 30-58 years. Male participants constituted 84.9%, and Female participants 15.1%. Twenty five percent (25%) of the surveyed participants were aware of vaginal microbicides, and only 3% correctly mentioned an example of a vaginal microbicide for HIV prevention. The willingness of the participants to collaborate on vaginal microbicides trials was not significantly related to their knowledge on vaginal microbicides (p = 0.475).

Conclusion: We concluded that the current knowledge of Nigerian gynecologist on vaginal microbicides is poor. Efforts to create awareness among these women advocates on recent HIV prevention technology, particularly, vaginal microbicides are required.