KAP study of sexually transmitted infections and diseases among under graduate and post graduate students of Rajanna Sircilla District, Telangana

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a major public health concern among adolescents and young adults in India. Limited awareness, misconceptions, and unsafe sexual practices may increase the risk of transmission and associated health complications. However, the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding STIs/STDs among college students in Rajanna Sircilla district, Telangana, have not been explored adequately. Hence, this study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding STIs/STDs among undergraduate and postgraduate students in Rajanna Sircilla district, Telangana. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 210 undergraduate and postgraduate students from selected colleges in Rajanna Sircilla district. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic information and KAP-related aspects of STIs/STDs. Qualitative insights were obtained through in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative responses were thematically analysed. Results: The majority of participants were female (72.9%) and pursuing graduate studies (83.3%). HIV was the most recognized STI (86.1%), while awareness of infections such as genital herpes, syphilis, and trichomoniasis was limited. Most identified sexual contact and blood transfusion as key transmission routes, and 81.4% acknowledged that multiple partners increase risk. However, discomfort discussing sexual health and limited access to preventive resources persisted. Stigma and misconceptions were evident, and participation in testing or awareness programmes was low. Conclusions: Despite generally positive attitudes, substantial gaps in knowledge and preventive behaviour remain. Persistent stigma, misinformation, and limited sexual health education call for targeted awareness campaigns, curriculum-based interventions, and de-stigmatisation efforts among young adults.