Awareness of HIV/AIDS among People who Inject Drugs in two Districts of Kashmir,India

Awareness of HIV/AIDS among People who Inject Drugs in two Districts of Kashmir,India | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Awareness of HIV/AIDS among People who Inject Drugs in two Districts of Kashmir,India Dr. Inaamul Haq, Dr. Mariya Amin Qurieshi, Dr. Khalid Bashir, and 3 more This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-7532591/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Background: Injecting drug use is a significant driver of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, yet limited data exist on awareness, behaviors, and risk perceptions among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Kashmir. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention, determine injecting practices, and evaluate self-assessed HIV risk among PWID in the districts of Srinagar and Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among male PWID registered at High-Risk Group (HRG) intervention sites under the Jammu and Kashmir AIDS Control Society (JKACS). Participants were selected using simple random sampling from the registry, with a calculated sample size (407). Data were collected through structured interviews, focusing on HIV/AIDS knowledge, injecting behaviors, and perceived risk of HIV infection. Results: While 76.7% of participants were aware of HIV, comprehensive knowledge was demonstrated by only 57%. Misconceptions were prevalent: 66.9% equated HIV with AIDS, 30.8% believed AIDS is curable, and 46.8% thought a healthy diet could prevent HIV. Stigmatizing views persisted, with 80.2% perceiving HIV as confined to high-risk groups. Risky injecting practices were alarmingly common, with 68.3% reporting needle reuse, 69.7% sharing needles during their last injection, and 83.8% relying on ineffective water cleaning methods. Sexual practices further elevated HIV risk, with only 28% consistently using condoms, 21.9% reporting multiple partners, and 20.3% engaging in transactional sex. Self-assessed HIV risk revealed varied perceptions, with 25.8% considering themselves "very likely" to contract HIV, 35.4% underestimating their risk, and 37.5% rarely or never reflecting on it. Conclusions: The study underscores critical gaps in HIV/AIDS knowledge, widespread high-risk injecting practices, and inconsistent risk perception among PWID in Kashmir. These findings highlight the urgent need for culturally tailored harm reduction programs that address misconceptions, promote safer injecting behaviors, and enhance HIV risk awareness in this vulnerable population. HIV/AIDS People who inject drugs (PWID) risk perception knowledge and practices harm reduction Kashmir Background The study of HIV infection among people who inject drugs (PWID) is still developing. Injectable drug use significantly contributes to the spread of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, there is still a lack of extensive epidemiological data regarding this group, especially among those who have been diagnosed with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Research has indicated that the odds of contracting HIV through intravenous drug use stand at 0.67%. Furthermore, studies into the HIV prevalence among PWID show considerable differences from one country to another and between cities. On a global scale, PWID contribute to 10% of new HIV infections each year. In India, PWID play a major role in the HIV/AIDS epidemic, with a noted HIV positivity rate of 6.3% among this group.[ 1 , 2 , 3 ] In Kashmir, the percentage of people who use injectable drugs was reported at 0.95% in 2020. Nonetheless, this number has alarmingly surged by 1500% over the last four years. Such a trend poses a serious risk to both the rising incidence and the overall prevalence of HIV. The practice of sharing and reusing needles and syringes among PWID in Kashmir further intensifies this concern. A study from the region revealed that 71% of PWID shared needles and syringes. In comparison, 70% reported reusing them, a significant increase compared to the 14% needle-sharing rate found in a multicentric study from other Indian regions. [ 4 , 5 ] Understanding the perceived risks related to infections like HIV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis B virus (HBV) is crucial in shaping the behaviors of injecting drug users. Perception of risk significantly impacts the decision-making processes of PWID. Research shows that a heightened awareness of risk correlates with less frequent injecting drug use and a reduction in sharing syringes, needles, and other paraphernalia among PWID. This highlights the need to enhance awareness about infection risks to minimize unsafe injection practices.[ 5 ] In India, the HIV epidemic driven by PWID remains a serious concern, even though the country's overall HIV prevalence is relatively low. Education, information, and communication (IEC) strategies are vital components for preventing HIV among high-risk groups. A study conducted among PWID in China aimed at assessing knowledge and behavior related to HIV/AIDS showed that participants had a good level of awareness about the virus. This finding was connected to their involvement in specific intervention programs.[ 6 ] However, there is a noticeable lack of available literature addressing knowledge and awareness of HIV/AIDS in India, especially among high-risk groups like PWID. The most recent National Behavioral Surveillance Survey (BSS), carried out in 2006 at ten sites across India, indicated that awareness of HIV/AIDS among PWID was notably high in all regions surveyed, with over 90% of respondents acknowledging awareness. [ 7 , 8 ] Awareness of needle sharing as a primary mode of HIV transmission was most prevalent in Manipur (98.9%) and least common in Punjab (76.2%). The percentage of PWID informed about the need for consistent condom use as a preventive measure varied, ranging from 74.5% in Sikkim to 85% in other states. A comprehensive and accurate understanding of HIV transmission and prevention varied significantly, with 77% of respondents in Manipur reporting such understanding compared to only 55% in Chennai. The self-perception of a high risk of acquiring HIV/AIDS also varied considerably across surveyed areas, ranging from 5% to 56%.[ 7 , 8 ] This inconsistency emphasizes the necessity for targeted interventions designed to bridge the gaps in knowledge, risk perception, and behavioral practices among PWID. Injecting drug use has been a significant factor in fueling the HIV epidemic, with PWID in India displaying a much higher rate of HIV positivity compared to the general populace. The Kashmir region has seen an enormous increase in injection drug use, alongside unsafe practices like needle sharing, which raise the risk for HIV transmission. However, there has been very scarce epidemiological information regarding PWID' awareness, knowledge, and risk perception in this particular area. This study sought to bridge that gap and offer evidence-based recommendations aimed at strengthening HIV prevention initiatives in particular in Kashmir which faces unique challenges in its own context. Methods Study Design This research involved a cross-sectional study aiming to evaluate the knowledge, behaviors, and practices related to HIV among people who inject drugs (PWID) in the districts of Srinagar and Baramulla, located in Jammu and Kashmir. Ethical Considerations Approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of the Government Medical College, Srinagar, under reference number IRBGMC-SGR/SPM/756, dated 25-11-2024. The study followed the principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. All participants provided written informed consent, ensuring their confidentiality and anonymity. Participation was voluntary, and individuals could withdraw from the study at any time without facing any consequences. Study Setting The research was conducted in High-Risk Group (HRG) sentinel sites designated for PWID under the Jammu and Kashmir AIDS Control Society (JKACS). These sites in Srinagar and Baramulla served as the primary centers for recruiting participants and collecting data. Study Population The study focused on male PWID who were registered with HRG-targeted intervention sites in the districts of Srinagar and Baramulla. Inclusion Criteria Participants qualified if they met the following criteria: Had used any substance for nonmedical or recreational purposes at least once in the past three months. Had engaged in drug injection during the three months leading up to the interview. Were residents of either Srinagar or Baramulla districts. Sampling Method A simple random sampling technique was utilized, employing the registry of PWID at HRG-targeted intervention sites as the sampling base. Sample Size Calculation The sample size was estimated on a prevalence rate of 36% for comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge among PWID, with a margin of error of 5% and an anticipated non-response rate of 20%. Based on these parameters, a sample size of 443 participants was determined. Data Collection Procedure Participant Recruitment A list of registered PWID was obtained from targeted intervention sites. Eligible individuals were invited for scheduled interviews, ensuring their voluntary participation. Data Collection and Interview Process Trained investigators conducted face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. To uphold confidentiality and reduce social desirability bias, interviews were held individually in private settings. Survey Instrument The questionnaire was created following an extensive literature review and included the following sections: Sociodemographic Characteristics : Information such as age, educational background, marital status, income, and employment status. Injection Use Practices : Details regarding injection frequency, needle/syringe sharing, and access to harm reduction services. HIV Knowledge and Awareness : Measured through validated indicators covering transmission routes, prevention methods, and common misconceptions. HIV Risk Perception : Assessed using a scale adapted from existing literature. Sexual Behaviors and Practices : Information on the number of regular and non-regular partners, as well as condom use consistency. Quality Assurance and Control Measures Training of Investigators : Standardized training sessions were conducted to guarantee consistent data collection and adherence to ethical guidelines. Pilot Testing : A preliminary study was performed to enhance the questionnaire and identify potential administration issues. Field Supervision : Routine monitoring was implemented to ensure compliance with study protocols and to swiftly address operational challenges. Data Entry Validation : Double-entry and cross-validation techniques were used to reduce errors. Periodic Review : Weekly evaluations monitored compliance with quality standards. Data Management and Statistical Analysis Data were inputted into Microsoft Excel and analyzed with Stata version 15. Descriptive statistics summarized participants' sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge levels, and behavioral patterns. The chi-square test assessed associations between categorical variables, while Fisher’s exact test was applied when Cochran’s criteria were not met. A two-tailed p-value of less than 0.05 was deemed statistically significant. Data Collection Challenges Efforts were made to minimize non-response bias by making three attempts to contact participants who missed scheduled interviews. Confidential environments encouraged honest responses, reducing social desirability bias. Despite these efforts, challenges such as participant availability and accurate self-reporting persisted. Results The study included a total of 429 participants (Table:1), with almost equal numbers from Srinagar District (48.5%) and Baramulla District (51.5%). Most participants were young adults aged 18 to 24 years (49.4%). Educational backgrounds varied, with 25.2% having completed 10th and 12th grades, while 3.5% were illiterate. A majority of the participants were unmarried (64.8%) and lived with their families (97.9%). Financially, 53.4% of respondents earned between ₹5,001 and ₹15,000 per month ( approximately $60 to $180 USD ), and self-employment was the most common source of income (29.6%). The prevalence of HCV infection was noted at 54.3%, whereas HBV and HIV infections were reported at 8.9% and 0.7%, respectively, accompanied by significant gaps in screening awareness. Among the 329 participants familiar with HIV, 66.9% confused HIV with AIDS, and 30.7% mistakenly believed that AIDS is curable (Table:2). Misunderstandings were prevalent, as 67.5% assumed that symptoms appear immediately, and 40.4% denied that anyone could be susceptible. Stigma was evident, with 80.2% linking HIV solely to high-risk groups. While 88.1% acknowledged that condom use is preventive, 46.5% incorrectly viewed a healthy diet as having protective benefits. Awareness about the absence of an HIV vaccine was low at 14.3%. Knowledge of blood testing was high (85.7%); however, misconceptions regarding diagnosis and treatment access persisted. A comprehensive understanding of HIV was reported by 74.2% of participants, indicating notable gaps that require targeted interventions. Table: 3 discusses high-risk injection practices among the participants (n = 429). The median duration of drug use was 4 years (IQR: 2–6), with median injection initiation occurring at 24 months (IQR: 9–36). Needle sharing was widespread, reported by 69.2% of participants, with 8.6% sharing needles with three or more individuals. Among those who shared needles (n = 297), 93.9% cleaned them, but 83.9% relied on ineffective methods such as water. Utilization of proper sterilization methods was minimal, highlighting the urgent need for harm-reduction strategies and access to sterile injecting equipment. Table: 4 analyzes sexual practices among 115 participants who engaged in promiscuous behavior in the previous month. Among these, 24 were married, 90 were unmarried, and 1 was divorced. Condom use during the last sexual encounter was reported at 45%, with only 29% practicing consistent use. Unmarried participants showed higher rates of sexual activity and multiple partners, and 24% reported engagement in transactional sex. A noticeable 34% did not disclose their partner's status, reflecting ongoing stigma. These findings underscore the necessity for targeted interventions promoting safe sexual practices and consistent condom usage, particularly among unmarried individuals and those with multiple partners. Table: 5 explores HIV risk perceptions among 329 participants aware of HIV. While 39.5% considered themselves "somewhat likely" to contract the virus, 34.7% perceived their risk as low. More than half expressed occasional worries about HIV, yet 33.1% reported rarely or never thinking about it. Approximately 66% disagreed with the idea that they were immune to the virus, yet 34% felt at low risk. Despite their awareness, 36.1% rarely or never contemplated HIV. These findings highlight the pressing need for targeted education to improve risk perception and encourage preventive measures. Table:6 highlights inconsistencies in HIV knowledge by region, education, and occupation. Participants from Srinagar displayed greater knowledge (80%) compared to Baramulla (68.3%, p = 0.008). Education showed a strong positive correlation, with post-graduates (91.7%) demonstrating the highest knowledge levels, while illiterate individuals exhibited the lowest (44.4%, p < 0.001). Education was determined to be the most significant predictor of comprehensive HIV knowledge (p < 0.001), with elevated educational levels corresponding to enhanced awareness. Occupation also impacted knowledge, as those dependent on parents (81.8%) and drivers (83.3%) showed higher levels of awareness. Marital status, age, and income did not demonstrate a significant influence. These findings emphasize the need for targeted educational programs to address knowledge gaps across different regions and among lower educational groups. Discussion This study provides crucial insights into the demographics, HIV awareness, and high-risk behaviors of people who inject drugs (PWID) in Kashmir. The findings revealed significant gaps in knowledge and safe practices, underscoring the need for targeted harm reduction interventions and behavior change strategies. Socio-Demographic Factors The study population primarily comprised young adults aged 18–24 years, indicating early initiation of drug use. This aligns with previous studies from North India and South Asia, which have reported the onset of substance use during late adolescence or early adulthood.[9] The low literacy levels among the majority of participants (up to 12th standard or less) corroborate findings linking limited education and adulthood with increased vulnerability to drug use.[10,11] The high prevalence (97.9%) of residential living arrangements reflects cultural norms among Kashmiris that may facilitate the implementation of behavior modification and rehabilitation strategies. Knowledge and Awareness of HIV Despite 76.7% of participants being aware of HIV, there was a lack of comprehensive knowledge, and strong misconceptions persisted regarding the nature and curability of the disease. Similar findings have been reported in North Indian states and Manipur, where myths and insufficient knowledge about HIV among PWID are prevalent.[11,12,13] These knowledge gaps may threaten HIV prevention efforts and necessitate targeted education campaigns that disseminate accurate and thorough information. Unsafe Injection Practices and Needle Hygiene A significant proportion of respondents (68.3%) reported needle-sharing, a well-documented high-risk behavior associated with HIV and other blood-borne pathogens.[14] Although 93.9% of participants reported cleaning needles, the most common method (rinsing with water) was inadequate for proper sterilization, consistent with findings from other studies reporting similar suboptimal practices.[15,16] These results highlight the need to scale up harm reduction interventions, including the dispersal of sterile needles and syringes, which have proven effective in reducing risky behaviors globally.[16,17] Sexual Risk Behaviors The study found that 27.1% of participants had engaged in recent sexual activity, but condom use was inconsistent, with only 45.8% using a condom during their last sexual encounter and 28% reporting regular use. These findings are comparable to studies from Northeast Indian states, such as Manipur and Nagaland, where low condom use among PWID is attributed to poor risk perception and availability issues. [18,19] Additionally, the 22% prevalence of transactional sex suggests increased vulnerability to sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. These results underscore the importance of incorporating sexual health education and ensuring accessible condoms in harm reduction interventions. Comparison with Global Context The international prevalence of needle-sharing among PWID varies from 40% to 70%, depending on the region and socio-economic context.[20,21] The 68.3% prevalence observed in this study places Kashmir at the higher end of this range, possibly due to the limited availability of harm reduction interventions in the region. Community-led interventions in various countries have shown significant reductions in risky behaviors through needle exchange programs and peer education, offering a viable model for implementation in Kashmir.[22,23] Implications for Interventions The findings emphasize the need for culturally tailored interventions to mitigate the dual risks of unsafe injection practices and risky sexual behaviors among PWID in Kashmir. Effective harm reduction measures, such as needle exchange programs, community outreach, and peer education, have demonstrated success in similar contexts.[22,23] Capitalizing on the strong family structures observed in this population may enhance the effectiveness of these interventions by providing additional support for behavior change and rehabilitation Limitations: The cross-sectional design restricts the ability to determine causal relationships between knowledge of HIV, behaviors, and practices. Conclusion This study highlights the immediate need for harm reduction programs tailored to the cultural context of injection drug users (PWID) in Kashmir. Although 76.7% of participants were aware of HIV, there were many misconceptions—66.9% associated HIV with AIDS, 30.8% thought AIDS could be cured, and 46.8% believed that a healthy diet could prevent infection. Only 57% possessed comprehensive knowledge on the subject, and stigma was prevalent, with 80.2% viewing HIV as a condition exclusive to high-risk groups. Risky injection practices were common, with 68.3% reusing needles, 69.7% sharing them, and 83.8% employing ineffective cleaning methods. Unsafe sexual practices further heightened the risk of HIV, as indicated by low condom usage (28%) and engagement in transactional sex (20.3%). Perceptions of risk varied, with 35.4% of individuals underestimating their vulnerability, highlighting the need for targeted educational and behavioral programs. Declarations Ethics and Guidelines: The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of the Government Medical College, Srinagar, under reference number IRBGMC-SGR/SPM/756, dated 25-11-2024. The research adhered to the principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. Consent to Participate: All participants provided written informed consent prior to participation. Participation was voluntary, and participants could withdraw from the study at any time without any consequences. Consent for Publication: Not applicable Availability of Data and Materials: Yes, all the data and materials are available. The datasets generated and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request. Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests. Funding: This study was funded by the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) and J&K AIDS Control Society (JKACS). The funding organizations had no role in the study design, data collection, analysis, or interpretation. Authors’ Contributions: Conceptualization and study design: [Prof.(Dr.) S Muhammad Salim Khan ,Dr. Inaamul Haq, Dr. Mariya Amin Qurieshi, Dr.Khalid Bashir:] Data collection: [Dr.Khalid Bashir, Dr. Inaamul Haq, Dr. Mariya Amin Qurieshi,] Data analysis and interpretation: [Dr. Inaamul Haq, Dr.Khalid Bashir, Dr. Mariya Amin Qurieshi, Prof.(Dr.) S Muhammad Salim Khan] Manuscript drafting: [Dr.Khalid Bashir, Dr. Inaamul Haq, Dr. Mariya Amin Qurieshi, Dr. Mir Darakhshan Gulzar, Dr. Mansha Jaan] Critical revision and final approval: [All Authors] Acknowledgements: The authors gratefully acknowledge the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) and J&K AIDS Control Society (JKACS) for their support in this project. We sincerely appreciate the participation of all the participants of the study. Special thanks to Professor Dr. Yasir Rather, Department of Psychiatry (IMHANS), Government Medical College, Srinagar, for his valuable guidance and support. Clinical trial number: not applicable. References Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. HIV and Injection Drug Use. HIV Transmission. HIV Basics. HIV/AIDS [Internet]. [cited 2023 Aug 5]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov World Health Organization. Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programmes [Internet]. [cited 2023 Aug 5]. Available from: https://www.who.int/teams/ Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Annual Report 2019–2020 [Internet]. [cited 2023 Aug 5]. Available from: https://main.mohfw.gov.in/sites/default/files/Annual%20Report%202019-2020%20English.pdf Rather YH, Bhat FR, Malla AA, Zahoor M, Ali Massodi PA, Yousuf S. Pattern and prevalence of substance use and dependence in two districts of Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir: Special focus on opioids. 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Tables Table 1: Sociodemographic and Health Characteristics of Participants Sociodemographic and health characteristics n (%) District Srinagar 208 (48.5%) Baramulla 221 (51.5%) Age group 18-24 years 212 (49.8%) 25-29 years 111 (26.1%) 30-34 years 55 (12.9%) ≥35 years 48 (11.3%) Education Professional course/training 21 (4.9%) Post-graduate 12 (2.8%) Graduate 40 (9.3%) Passed 12th class 108 (25.2%) Passed 10th class 108 (25.2%) Passed 8th class 88 (20.5%) Passed 5th class 37 (8.6%) Illiterate 15 (3.5%) Marital status Divorced 3 (0.7%) Married 148 (34.5%) Unmarried 278 (64.8%) Currently living with family No 9 (2.1%) Yes 419 (97.9%) Income per month No income of my own 80 (18.6%) ≤5000( approximately $60USD) 23 (5.4%) 5001-15000(( approximately $60 to $180 USD ) 229 (53.4%) 15001-25000( approximately $180 to $240 USD ) 45 (10.5%) >25000(> $240 USD ) 52 (12.1%) Source of income Self employed 127 (29.7%) Dependent on parents 88 (20.6%) Driver 72 (16.8%) Labourer 58 (13.6%) Salaried 50 (11.7%) Street vendor 20 (4.7%) Others 13 (3.0%) HBV infection status Positive 38 (9.0%) Negative 263 (62.0%) Not tested 5 (1.2%) Status unknown 118 (27.8%) HCV infection status Positive 233 (54.7%) Negative 87 (20.4%) Not tested 5 (1.2%) Status unknown 101 (23.7%) HIV infection status Positive 3 (0.7%) Negative 305 (71.9%) Not tested 4 (0.9%) Status unknown 112 (26.4%) Table 2: HIV Knowledge among Participants Knowledge about HIV n (%) n = 329 HIV and AIDS are the same Yes 220 (66.9%) No 77 (23.4%) Don't Know 32 (9.7%) AIDS is a curable disease Yes 101 (30.7%) No 152 (46.2%) Don't Know 76 (23.1%) Once infected with HIV sign and symptoms develop quickly Yes 222 (67.5%) No 54 (16.4%) Don't Know 53 (16.1%) Anybody can get HIV Yes 102 (31.0%) No 133 (40.4%) Don't Know 94 (28.6%) AIDS is a hereditary disease Yes 22 (6.7%) No 207 (62.9%) Don't Know 100 (30.4%) Only high-risk people (PWID/MSM/FSW) can get HIV Yes 264 (80.2%) No 32 (9.7%) Don't Know 33 (10.0%) There is a vaccine for HIV Yes 47 (14.3%) No 71 (21.6%) Don't Know 211 (64.1%) Using condom can prevent HIV Yes 290 (88.1%) No 22 (6.7%) Don't Know 17 (5.2%) Using healthy diet can prevent HIV Yes 153 (46.5%) No 103 (31.3%) Don't Know 73 (22.2%) How is HIV diagnosed? Blood test 282 (85.7%) Urine test 17 (5.2%) Blood/Urine test 1 (0.3%) Don't know 29 (8.8%) Where is treatment of HIV available? All government hospitals 165 (50.2%) Designated hospitals 104 (31.6%) Treatment not available in Kashmir 4 (1.2%) Don't know 56 (17.0%) Comprehensive knowledge about HIV* Yes 244 (74.2%) No 85 (25.8%) *HIV can be transmitted by sharing needles and unprotected sexual intercourse AND correct and consistent use of condoms can prevent HIV transmission AND sharing of food and utensils and insect bites cannot transmit HIV. Table 3: Injection Use Practices Among Participants(PWID). Injection use practices n (%) Since how long have you been using drugs (years)? Median (IQR) 4 (2-6) Since how long have you been injecting drugs (months)? Median (IQR) 24 (9-36) Shared needles in past one month No 132 (30.8%) Yes 297 (69.2%) Total 429 When you injected with others last time, how many used the same needle? 0 132 (30.8%) 1 76 (17.7%) 2 130 (30.3%) 3 54 (12.6%) ≥ 3 37 (8.6%) Total 429 Did you clean the needle before use? (n = 297) No 18 (6.1%) Yes 279 (93.9%) Total 297 Cleaning practices (n = 279) Water 234 (83.9%) Boiling 14 (5.0%) Flame 3 (1.1%) Normal Saline 2 (0.7%) Disinfectant 1 (0.4%) More than one method 25 (9.0%) Total 279 Table 4: Sexual practices and Condom Use by Marital Status Marital status Total Married Unmarried Divorced Did you have sex in last one month? Yes 24 (16%) 90 (32%) 1 (33%) 115 (27%) No 119 (80%) 186 (67%) 1 (33%) 306 (71%) Prefer not to answer 5 (3%) 2 (1%) 1 (33%) 8 (2%) Total 148 278 3 429 Did you use condom during last sex? Yes 11 (46%) 41 (46%) 0 (0%) 52 (45%) No 13 (54%) 49 (54%) 1 (100%) 63 (55%) Total 24 90 1 115 Do you always use condom during sex? Yes 6 (25%) 27 (30%) 0 (0%) 33 (29%) Not always 9 (38%) 39 (43%) 1 (100%) 49 (43%) Don't use at all 7 (29%) 10 (11%) 0 (0%) 17 (15%) Prefer not to answer 2 (8%) 14 (16%) 0 (0%) 16 (14%) Total 24 90 1 115 Do you currently have a steady (same) sexual partner? Yes 15 (63%) 39 (43%) 1 (100%) 55 (48%) No 4 (17%) 17 (19%) 0 (0%) 21 (18%) Prefer not to answer 5 (21%) 34 (38%) 0 (0%) 39 (34%) Total 24 90 1 115 In last one month, did you have sex with more than one partner? Yes 1 (25%) 11 (65%) 0 12 (57%) No 3 (75%) 5 (29%) 0 8 (38%) Prefer not to answer 0 (0%) 1 (6%) 0 1 (5%) Total 4 17 0 21 Did you pay for the sex or arrange it with other means? Yes 1 (25%) 4 (24%) 0 5 (24%) No 3 (75%) 12 (71%) 0 15 (71%) Prefer not to answer 0 (0%) 1 (6%) 0 1 (5%) Total 4 17 0 21 Table 5: Risk Perceptions about HIV Infection among the participants(PWID). Risk perception about HIV infection n (%) (n = 329) What is your gut feeling about how likely you are to get infected with HIV? Extremely unlikely 49 (14.9%) Very unlikely 65 (19.8%) Somewhat likely 130 (39.5%) Very likely 59 (17.9%) Extremely likely 26 (7.9%) I worry about getting infected with HIV None of the time 57 (17.3%) Rarely 52 (15.8%) Some of the time 105 (31.9%) A moderate amount of time 79 (24.0%) A lot of time 24 (7.3%) All of the time 12 (3.6%) I am sure I will not get infected with HIV Strongly disagree 21 (6.4%) Somewhat disagree 125 (38.0%) Disagree 71 (21.6%) Somewhat agree 37 (11.2%) Agree 47 (14.3%) Strongly agree 28 (8.5%) Getting HIV is something I have thought about Never thought about 59 (17.9%) Rarely thought about 60 (18.2%) Thought about some of the time 168 (51.1%) Thought about often 42 (12.8%) Table 6: Comprehensive knowledge of HIV by Participant Characteristics Participant characteristics Total Comprehensive knowledge of HIV p-value a Yes No District Srinagar 165 132 (80.0%) 33 (20.0%) 0.008 Baramulla 164 112 (68.3%) 52 (31.7%) Age (years) 18-24 156 113 (72.4%) 43 (27.6%) 0.497 25-29 93 69 (74.2%) 24 (25.8%) 30-34 47 32 (68.1%) 15 (31.9%) ≥35 33 30 (90.9%) 3 (9.1%) Marital status Married 105 75 (71.4%) 30 (28.6%) 0.515 b Unmarried 221 167 (75.6%) 54 (24.4%) Divorced 3 2 (66.7%) 1 (33.3%) Education Illiterate 9 4 (44.4%) 5 (55.6%) <0.001 Passed 5th class 21 12 (57.1%) 9 (42.9%) Passed 8th class 54 37 (68.5%) 17 (31.5%) Passed 10th class 78 60 (76.9%) 18 (23.1%) Passed 12th class 95 70 (73.7%) 25 (26.3%) Graduate 39 31 (79.5%) 8 (20.5%) Post-graduate 12 11 (91.7%) 1 (8.3%) Professional course/training 21 19 (90.5%) 2 (9.5%) Income >25000 43 30 (69.8%) 13 (30.2%) 0.054 15001-25000 39 24 (61.5%) 15 (38.5%) 5001-15000 164 125 (76.2%) 39 (23.8%) ≤5000 14 9 (64.3%) 5 (35.7%) No income of my own 69 56 (81.2%) 13 (18.8%) Occupation Self-employed 103 71 (68.9%) 32 (31.1%) Dependent on parents 77 63 (81.8%) 14 (18.2%) 0.012 Driver 48 40 (83.3%) 8 (16.7%) Salaried 42 31 (73.8%) 11 (26.2%) Labourer 36 24 (66.7%) 12 (33.3%) Street vendor 15 9 (60.0%) 6 (40.0%) Others 8 6 (75.0%) 2 (25.0%) a Chi-square test; b Fisher's Exact Test Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. 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13:56:25","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":2015488,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7532591/v1/86662387-387d-4e8f-914f-f9a288a8891a.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"\u003cp\u003eAwareness of HIV/AIDS among People who Inject Drugs in two Districts of Kashmir,India\u003c/p\u003e","fulltext":[{"header":"Background","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe study of HIV infection among people who inject drugs (PWID) is still developing. Injectable drug use significantly contributes to the spread of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, there is still a lack of extensive epidemiological data regarding this group, especially among those who have been diagnosed with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Research has indicated that the odds of contracting HIV through intravenous drug use stand at 0.67%. Furthermore, studies into the HIV prevalence among PWID show considerable differences from one country to another and between cities. On a global scale, PWID contribute to 10% of new HIV infections each year. In India, PWID play a major role in the HIV/AIDS epidemic, with a noted HIV positivity rate of 6.3% among this group.[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e]\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn Kashmir, the percentage of people who use injectable drugs was reported at 0.95% in 2020. Nonetheless, this number has alarmingly surged by 1500% over the last four years. Such a trend poses a serious risk to both the rising incidence and the overall prevalence of HIV. The practice of sharing and reusing needles and syringes among PWID in Kashmir further intensifies this concern. A study from the region revealed that 71% of PWID shared needles and syringes. In comparison, 70% reported reusing them, a significant increase compared to the 14% needle-sharing rate found in a multicentric study from other Indian regions. [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e] Understanding the perceived risks related to infections like HIV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis B virus (HBV) is crucial in shaping the behaviors of injecting drug users. Perception of risk significantly impacts the decision-making processes of PWID. Research shows that a heightened awareness of risk correlates with less frequent injecting drug use and a reduction in sharing syringes, needles, and other paraphernalia among PWID. This highlights the need to enhance awareness about infection risks to minimize unsafe injection practices.[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e]\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn India, the HIV epidemic driven by PWID remains a serious concern, even though the country's overall HIV prevalence is relatively low. Education, information, and communication (IEC) strategies are vital components for preventing HIV among high-risk groups. A study conducted among PWID in China aimed at assessing knowledge and behavior related to HIV/AIDS showed that participants had a good level of awareness about the virus. This finding was connected to their involvement in specific intervention programs.[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e] However, there is a noticeable lack of available literature addressing knowledge and awareness of HIV/AIDS in India, especially among high-risk groups like PWID.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe most recent National Behavioral Surveillance Survey (BSS), carried out in 2006 at ten sites across India, indicated that awareness of HIV/AIDS among PWID was notably high in all regions surveyed, with over 90% of respondents acknowledging awareness. [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e] Awareness of needle sharing as a primary mode of HIV transmission was most prevalent in Manipur (98.9%) and least common in Punjab (76.2%). The percentage of PWID informed about the need for consistent condom use as a preventive measure varied, ranging from 74.5% in Sikkim to 85% in other states. A comprehensive and accurate understanding of HIV transmission and prevention varied significantly, with 77% of respondents in Manipur reporting such understanding compared to only 55% in Chennai. The self-perception of a high risk of acquiring HIV/AIDS also varied considerably across surveyed areas, ranging from 5% to 56%.[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e] This inconsistency emphasizes the necessity for targeted interventions designed to bridge the gaps in knowledge, risk perception, and behavioral practices among PWID. Injecting drug use has been a significant factor in fueling the HIV epidemic, with PWID in India displaying a much higher rate of HIV positivity compared to the general populace. The Kashmir region has seen an enormous increase in injection drug use, alongside unsafe practices like needle sharing, which raise the risk for HIV transmission. However, there has been very scarce epidemiological information regarding PWID' awareness, knowledge, and risk perception in this particular area. This study sought to bridge that gap and offer evidence-based recommendations aimed at strengthening HIV prevention initiatives in particular in Kashmir which faces unique challenges in its own context.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Methods","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStudy Design\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis research involved a cross-sectional study aiming to evaluate the knowledge, behaviors, and practices related to HIV among people who inject drugs (PWID) in the districts of Srinagar and Baramulla, located in Jammu and Kashmir.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical Considerations\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApproval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of the Government Medical College, Srinagar, under reference number IRBGMC-SGR/SPM/756, dated 25-11-2024. The study followed the principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. All participants provided written informed consent, ensuring their confidentiality and anonymity. Participation was voluntary, and individuals could withdraw from the study at any time without facing any consequences.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStudy Setting\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe research was conducted in High-Risk Group (HRG) sentinel sites designated for PWID under the Jammu and Kashmir AIDS Control Society (JKACS). These sites in Srinagar and Baramulla served as the primary centers for recruiting participants and collecting data.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStudy Population\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study focused on male PWID who were registered with HRG-targeted intervention sites in the districts of Srinagar and Baramulla.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInclusion Criteria\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParticipants qualified if they met the following criteria:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"disc\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eHad used any substance for nonmedical or recreational purposes at least once in the past three months.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eHad engaged in drug injection during the three months leading up to the interview.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eWere residents of either Srinagar or Baramulla districts.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSampling Method\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA simple random sampling technique was utilized, employing the registry of PWID at HRG-targeted intervention sites as the sampling base.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSample Size Calculation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sample size was estimated on a prevalence rate of 36% for comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge among PWID, with a margin of error of 5% and an anticipated non-response rate of 20%. Based on these parameters, a sample size of 443 participants was determined.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData Collection Procedure\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eParticipant Recruitment\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA list of registered PWID was obtained from targeted intervention sites. Eligible individuals were invited for scheduled interviews, ensuring their voluntary participation.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData Collection and Interview Process\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrained investigators conducted face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. To uphold confidentiality and reduce social desirability bias, interviews were held individually in private settings.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSurvey Instrument\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe questionnaire was created following an extensive literature review and included the following sections:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"disc\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSociodemographic Characteristics\u003c/strong\u003e: Information such as age, educational background, marital status, income, and employment status.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInjection Use Practices\u003c/strong\u003e: Details regarding injection frequency, needle/syringe sharing, and access to harm reduction services.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHIV Knowledge and Awareness\u003c/strong\u003e: Measured through validated indicators covering transmission routes, prevention methods, and common misconceptions.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHIV Risk Perception\u003c/strong\u003e: Assessed using a scale adapted from existing literature.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSexual Behaviors and Practices\u003c/strong\u003e: Information on the number of regular and non-regular partners, as well as condom use consistency.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuality Assurance and Control Measures\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"disc\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTraining of Investigators\u003c/strong\u003e: Standardized training sessions were conducted to guarantee consistent data collection and adherence to ethical guidelines.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePilot Testing\u003c/strong\u003e: A preliminary study was performed to enhance the questionnaire and identify potential administration issues.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eField Supervision\u003c/strong\u003e: Routine monitoring was implemented to ensure compliance with study protocols and to swiftly address operational challenges.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData Entry Validation\u003c/strong\u003e: Double-entry and cross-validation techniques were used to reduce errors.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriodic Review\u003c/strong\u003e: Weekly evaluations monitored compliance with quality standards.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData Management and Statistical Analysis\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eData were inputted into Microsoft Excel and analyzed with Stata version 15. Descriptive statistics summarized participants\u0026apos; sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge levels, and behavioral patterns. The chi-square test assessed associations between categorical variables, while Fisher\u0026rsquo;s exact test was applied when Cochran\u0026rsquo;s criteria were not met. A two-tailed p-value of less than 0.05 was deemed statistically significant.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData Collection Challenges\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEfforts were made to minimize non-response bias by making three attempts to contact participants who missed scheduled interviews. Confidential environments encouraged honest responses, reducing social desirability bias. Despite these efforts, challenges such as participant availability and accurate self-reporting persisted.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Results","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe study included a total of 429 participants (Table:1), with almost equal numbers from Srinagar District (48.5%) and Baramulla District (51.5%). Most participants were young adults aged 18 to 24 years (49.4%). Educational backgrounds varied, with 25.2% having completed 10th and 12th grades, while 3.5% were illiterate. A majority of the participants were unmarried (64.8%) and lived with their families (97.9%). Financially, 53.4% of respondents earned between ₹5,001 and ₹15,000 per month (\u003cb\u003eapproximately $60 to $180 USD\u003c/b\u003e), and self-employment was the most common source of income (29.6%). The prevalence of HCV infection was noted at 54.3%, whereas HBV and HIV infections were reported at 8.9% and 0.7%, respectively, accompanied by significant gaps in screening awareness. Among the 329 participants familiar with HIV, 66.9% confused HIV with AIDS, and 30.7% mistakenly believed that AIDS is curable (Table:2). Misunderstandings were prevalent, as 67.5% assumed that symptoms appear immediately, and 40.4% denied that anyone could be susceptible. Stigma was evident, with 80.2% linking HIV solely to high-risk groups. While 88.1% acknowledged that condom use is preventive, 46.5% incorrectly viewed a healthy diet as having protective benefits. Awareness about the absence of an HIV vaccine was low at 14.3%. Knowledge of blood testing was high (85.7%); however, misconceptions regarding diagnosis and treatment access persisted. A comprehensive understanding of HIV was reported by 74.2% of participants, indicating notable gaps that require targeted interventions. Table: 3 discusses high-risk injection practices among the participants (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;429). The median duration of drug use was 4 years (IQR: 2\u0026ndash;6), with median injection initiation occurring at 24 months (IQR: 9\u0026ndash;36). Needle sharing was widespread, reported by 69.2% of participants, with 8.6% sharing needles with three or more individuals. Among those who shared needles (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;297), 93.9% cleaned them, but 83.9% relied on ineffective methods such as water. Utilization of proper sterilization methods was minimal, highlighting the urgent need for harm-reduction strategies and access to sterile injecting equipment. Table: 4 analyzes sexual practices among 115 participants who engaged in promiscuous behavior in the previous month. Among these, 24 were married, 90 were unmarried, and 1 was divorced. Condom use during the last sexual encounter was reported at 45%, with only 29% practicing consistent use. Unmarried participants showed higher rates of sexual activity and multiple partners, and 24% reported engagement in transactional sex. A noticeable 34% did not disclose their partner's status, reflecting ongoing stigma. These findings underscore the necessity for targeted interventions promoting safe sexual practices and consistent condom usage, particularly among unmarried individuals and those with multiple partners. Table: 5 explores HIV risk perceptions among 329 participants aware of HIV. While 39.5% considered themselves \"somewhat likely\" to contract the virus, 34.7% perceived their risk as low. More than half expressed occasional worries about HIV, yet 33.1% reported rarely or never thinking about it. Approximately 66% disagreed with the idea that they were immune to the virus, yet 34% felt at low risk. Despite their awareness, 36.1% rarely or never contemplated HIV. These findings highlight the pressing need for targeted education to improve risk perception and encourage preventive measures. Table:6 highlights inconsistencies in HIV knowledge by region, education, and occupation. Participants from Srinagar displayed greater knowledge (80%) compared to Baramulla (68.3%, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.008). Education showed a strong positive correlation, with post-graduates (91.7%) demonstrating the highest knowledge levels, while illiterate individuals exhibited the lowest (44.4%, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001). Education was determined to be the most significant predictor of comprehensive HIV knowledge (p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001), with elevated educational levels corresponding to enhanced awareness. Occupation also impacted knowledge, as those dependent on parents (81.8%) and drivers (83.3%) showed higher levels of awareness. Marital status, age, and income did not demonstrate a significant influence. These findings emphasize the need for targeted educational programs to address knowledge gaps across different regions and among lower educational groups.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study provides crucial insights into the demographics, HIV awareness, and high-risk behaviors of people who inject drugs (PWID) in Kashmir. The findings revealed significant gaps in knowledge and safe practices, underscoring the need for targeted harm reduction interventions and behavior change strategies.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSocio-Demographic Factors\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study population primarily comprised young adults aged 18\u0026ndash;24 years, indicating early initiation of drug use. This aligns with previous studies from North India and South Asia, which have reported the onset of substance use during late adolescence or early adulthood.[9] The low literacy levels among the majority of participants (up to 12th standard or less) corroborate findings linking limited education and adulthood with increased vulnerability to drug use.[10,11] The high prevalence (97.9%) of residential living arrangements reflects cultural norms among Kashmiris that may facilitate the implementation of behavior modification and rehabilitation strategies.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKnowledge and Awareness of HIV\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite 76.7% of participants being aware of HIV, there was a lack of comprehensive knowledge, and strong misconceptions persisted regarding the nature and curability of the disease. Similar findings have been reported in North Indian states and Manipur, where myths and insufficient knowledge about HIV among PWID are prevalent.[11,12,13] These knowledge gaps may threaten HIV prevention efforts and necessitate targeted education campaigns that disseminate accurate and thorough information.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUnsafe Injection Practices and Needle Hygiene\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA significant proportion of respondents (68.3%) reported needle-sharing, a well-documented high-risk behavior associated with HIV and other blood-borne pathogens.[14] Although 93.9% of participants reported cleaning needles, the most common method (rinsing with water) was inadequate for proper sterilization, consistent with findings from other studies reporting similar suboptimal practices.[15,16] These results highlight the need to scale up harm reduction interventions, including the dispersal of sterile needles and syringes, which have proven effective in reducing risky behaviors globally.[16,17]\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSexual Risk Behaviors\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study found that 27.1% of participants had engaged in recent sexual activity, but condom use was inconsistent, with only 45.8% using a condom during their last sexual encounter and 28% reporting regular use. These findings are comparable to studies from Northeast Indian states, such as Manipur and Nagaland, where low condom use among PWID is attributed to poor risk perception and availability issues. [18,19] Additionally, the 22% prevalence of transactional sex suggests increased vulnerability to sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. These results underscore the importance of incorporating sexual health education and ensuring accessible condoms in harm reduction interventions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComparison with Global Context\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe international prevalence of needle-sharing among PWID varies from 40% to 70%, depending on the region and socio-economic context.[20,21] The 68.3% prevalence observed in this study places Kashmir at the higher end of this range, possibly due to the limited availability of harm reduction interventions in the region. Community-led interventions in various countries have shown significant reductions in risky behaviors through needle exchange programs and peer education, offering a viable model for implementation in Kashmir.[22,23]\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImplications for Interventions\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe findings emphasize the need for culturally tailored interventions to mitigate the dual risks of unsafe injection practices and risky sexual behaviors among PWID in Kashmir. Effective harm reduction measures, such as needle exchange programs, community outreach, and peer education, have demonstrated success in similar contexts.[22,23] \u0026nbsp;Capitalizing on the strong family structures observed in this population may enhance the effectiveness of these interventions by providing additional support for behavior change and rehabilitation\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLimitations:\u003c/strong\u003e The cross-sectional design restricts the ability to determine causal relationships between knowledge of HIV, behaviors, and practices.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study highlights the immediate need for harm reduction programs tailored to the cultural context of injection drug users (PWID) in Kashmir. Although 76.7% of participants were aware of HIV, there were many misconceptions\u0026mdash;66.9% associated HIV with AIDS, 30.8% thought AIDS could be cured, and 46.8% believed that a healthy diet could prevent infection. Only 57% possessed comprehensive knowledge on the subject, and stigma was prevalent, with 80.2% viewing HIV as a condition exclusive to high-risk groups. Risky injection practices were common, with 68.3% reusing needles, 69.7% sharing them, and 83.8% employing ineffective cleaning methods. Unsafe sexual practices further heightened the risk of HIV, as indicated by low condom usage (28%) and engagement in transactional sex (20.3%). Perceptions of risk varied, with 35.4% of individuals underestimating their vulnerability, highlighting the need for targeted educational and behavioral programs.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthics and Guidelines:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of the Government Medical College, Srinagar, under reference number IRBGMC-SGR/SPM/756, dated 25-11-2024. The research adhered to the principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsent to Participate:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll participants provided written informed consent prior to participation. Participation was voluntary, and participants could withdraw from the study at any time without any consequences.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsent for Publication: Not applicable\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAvailability of Data and Materials:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, all the data \u0026nbsp;and materials are available. The datasets generated and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompeting Interests:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors declare that they have no competing interests.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study was funded by the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) and J\u0026amp;K AIDS Control Society (JKACS). The funding organizations had no role in the study design, data collection, analysis, or interpretation.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthors\u0026rsquo; Contributions:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"disc\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eConceptualization and study design: [Prof.(Dr.) S Muhammad Salim Khan ,Dr. Inaamul Haq, Dr. Mariya Amin Qurieshi, Dr.Khalid Bashir:]\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eData collection: [Dr.Khalid Bashir, Dr. Inaamul Haq, Dr. Mariya Amin Qurieshi,]\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eData analysis and interpretation: [Dr. Inaamul Haq, Dr.Khalid Bashir, Dr. Mariya Amin Qurieshi, Prof.(Dr.) S Muhammad Salim Khan]\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eManuscript drafting: [Dr.Khalid Bashir, Dr. Inaamul Haq, Dr. Mariya Amin Qurieshi, Dr. Mir Darakhshan Gulzar, Dr. Mansha Jaan]\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eCritical revision and final approval: [All Authors]\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgements:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors gratefully acknowledge the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) and J\u0026amp;K AIDS Control Society (JKACS) for their support in this project. We sincerely appreciate the participation of all the participants of the study. \u0026nbsp;Special thanks to Professor Dr. Yasir Rather, Department of Psychiatry (IMHANS), Government Medical College, Srinagar, for his valuable guidance and support.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClinical trial number:\u003c/strong\u003e not applicable.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. HIV and Injection Drug Use. HIV Transmission. HIV Basics. HIV/AIDS [Internet]. [cited 2023 Aug 5]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eWorld Health Organization. Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programmes [Internet]. [cited 2023 Aug 5]. Available from: https://www.who.int/teams/\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eMinistry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Annual Report 2019\u0026ndash;2020 [Internet]. [cited 2023 Aug 5]. Available from: https://main.mohfw.gov.in/sites/default/files/Annual%20Report%202019-2020%20English.pdf\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eRather YH, Bhat FR, Malla AA, Zahoor M, Ali Massodi PA, Yousuf S. Pattern and prevalence of substance use and dependence in two districts of Union Territory of Jammu \u0026amp; Kashmir: Special focus on opioids. J Family Med Prim Care. 2021;10(1):414\u0026ndash;20. https://doi.org/10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1327_20\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eAmbekar A, Rao R, Mishra AK, Agrawal A. Type of opioids injected: Does it matter? A multicentric cross-sectional study of people who inject drugs. Drug Alcohol Rev. 2015;34(1):97\u0026ndash;104.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eBejarano J, Ahumada G, Cadenas N, Marco MD, Hynes M, Cumsille F. Perception of risk and drug use: An exploratory analysis of explanatory factors in six Latin American countries. 2011.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eChen B, Zhu Y, Guo R, et al. HIV/AIDS-related knowledge awareness and risk behaviors among injection drug users in Maanshan, China: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health. 2016;16(1):97. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-016-2786-6\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eNational AIDS Control Organisation, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. National Behavioural Surveillance Survey (BSS) 2006: Men who have sex with men (MSM) and injecting drug users (IDUs).\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eDhawan A, Pattanayak RD, Chopra A, Tikoo VK, Kumar R. Injection drug use among children and adolescents in India: Ringing the alarm bells. Indian J Psychiatry. 2016;58(4):387\u0026ndash;393. doi:10.4103/0019-5545.196701\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eTsering D, Pal R, Dasgupta A. Substance use among adolescent high school students in India: A survey of knowledge, attitude, and opinion. J Pharm Bioallied Sci. 2010;2(2):137\u0026ndash;40. doi:10.4103/0975-7406.67005\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ePachuau LN, Tannous C, Dhami M, Agho K. HIV among people who inject drugs in India: a systematic review. \u003cem\u003eBMC Public Health\u003c/em\u003e. 2022;22(1):13922. doi:10.1186/s12889-022-13922-\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eGanesh B, Mosoniro K, Vasna J, Elangovan A, Santhakumar A, Shobini R. Factors associated with human immunodeficiency virus infection and self-assessed risk to human immunodeficiency virus among injecting drug users in Manipur, India. \u003cem\u003eIndian J Public Health.\u003c/em\u003e 2020;64(Suppl):S61-S66. doi:10.4103/ijph.IJPH_61_20.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e.Sarkar S, Panda S, Sarkar K, Hangzo CZ, Bijaya L, Singh NY, Das N, Agarwal A, Chatterjee A, Deb BC. A cross-sectional study on factors including HIV testing and counselling determining unsafe injecting practices among injecting drug users of Manipur. \u003cem\u003eIndian J Public Health.\u003c/em\u003e 1995;39(3):86-92.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eTyndall MW, Currie S, Spittal P, Li K, Wood E, O\u0026apos;Shaughnessy MV, et al. Intensive injection cocaine use as the primary risk factor in the Vancouver HIV-1 epidemic. AIDS 2003; 17(6):887\u0026ndash;893.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eLatkin CA, Vlahov D, Anthony JC, Cohn S, Mandell W, Nelson KE. Needle-cleaning practices among intravenous drug users who share injection equipment in Baltimore, Maryland. \u003cem\u003eInt J Addict.\u003c/em\u003e 1992;27(6):717-725. doi:10.3109/10826089209068763.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eGleghorn AA, Jones TS, Doherty MC, Celentano DD, Vlahov D. Acquisition and use of needles and syringes by injecting drug users in Baltimore, Maryland. \u003cem\u003eJ Acquir Immune Defic Syndr Hum Retrovirol.\u003c/em\u003e 1995;10(1):97-103.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eStrathdee SA, Vlahov D. The effectiveness of needle exchange programs: A review of the science and policy. \u003cem\u003eAIDScience\u003c/em\u003e. 2001 Jan;1(16):1-12.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eArmstrong G, Humtsoe C, Kermode M. HIV risk behaviours among injecting drug users in Northeast India following scale-up of a targeted HIV prevention programme. \u003cem\u003eBMC Public Health\u003c/em\u003e. 2011;11(Suppl 6):S9. doi:10.1186/1471-2458-11-S6-S9.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eSuohu K, Humtsoe C, Saggurti N, Sabarwal S, Mahapatra B, Kermode M. Understanding the association between injecting and sexual risk behaviors of injecting drug users in Manipur and Nagaland, India. \u003cem\u003eHarm Reduct J.\u003c/em\u003e 2012;9:40. doi:10.1186/1477-7517-9-40.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eZhang L, Li J, Lai W, et al. Prevalence and Correlates of Needle-Sharing Among New and Long-Term Injection Drug Users in Southwest China. \u003cem\u003eSubst Use Misuse\u003c/em\u003e. 2010;45(14):2503-2523. doi:10.3109/10826084.2010.487234.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eCottler LB, Compton WM, Ben-Abdallah A. Correlates of needle sharing among injection-drug users. \u003cem\u003eAm J Public Health.\u003c/em\u003e 1994;84(6):920-923. doi:10.2105/AJPH.84.6.920.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eYeh PT, Yang X, Kennedy CE, et al. The impact of needle and syringe exchange programs on HIV-related risk behaviors in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis examining individual- versus community-level effects. \u003cem\u003eAIDS Behav.\u003c/em\u003e 2023;27:3306-3331. doi:10.1007/s10461-023-04051-x.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eFernandes RM, Cary M, Duarte G, Jesus G, Alarc\u0026atilde;o J, Torre C, Costa S, Costa J, Carneiro AV. Effectiveness of needle and syringe programmes in people who inject drugs \u0026ndash; An overview of systematic reviews. \u003cem\u003eBMC Public Health.\u003c/em\u003e 2017;17:309. doi:10.1186/s12889-017-4210-2.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"},{"header":"Tables","content":"\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 576px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 1: Sociodemographic and Health Characteristics of Participants\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSociodemographic and health characteristics\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003en (%)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDistrict\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Srinagar\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e208 (48.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Baramulla\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e221 (51.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAge group\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; 18-24 years\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e212 (49.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; 25-29 years\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e111 (26.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; 30-34 years\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55 (12.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026ge;35 years\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e48 (11.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEducation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Professional course/training\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21 (4.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Post-graduate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12 (2.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Graduate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40 (9.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Passed 12th class\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e108 (25.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Passed 10th class\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e108 (25.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Passed 8th class\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88 (20.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Passed 5th class\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37 (8.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Illiterate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15 (3.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarital status\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Divorced\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3 (0.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Married\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e148 (34.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Unmarried\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e278 (64.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCurrently living with family\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; No\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9 (2.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Yes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e419 (97.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIncome per month\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; No income of my own\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e80 (18.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026le;5000(\u003cstrong\u003eapproximately $60USD)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23 (5.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; 5001-15000((\u003cstrong\u003eapproximately $60 to $180 USD\u003c/strong\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e229 (53.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; 15001-25000(\u003cstrong\u003eapproximately $180 to $240 USD\u003c/strong\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e45 (10.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;25000(\u0026gt;\u003cstrong\u003e$240 USD\u003c/strong\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e52 (12.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource of income\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Self employed\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e127 (29.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Dependent on parents\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88 (20.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Driver\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e72 (16.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Labourer\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e58 (13.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Salaried\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50 (11.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Street vendor\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20 (4.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Others\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13 (3.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHBV infection status\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Positive\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38 (9.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Negative\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e263 (62.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Not tested\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (1.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Status unknown\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e118 (27.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHCV infection status\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Positive\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e233 (54.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Negative\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e87 (20.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Not tested\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (1.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Status unknown\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e101 (23.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHIV infection status\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Positive\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3 (0.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Negative\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e305 (71.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Not tested\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4 (0.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 397px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Status unknown\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 180px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e112 (26.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"100%\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" style=\"width: 100px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 2: HIV Knowledge among Participants\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKnowledge about HIV\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003en (%)\u003cbr\u003e\u0026nbsp;n = 329\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHIV and AIDS are the same\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Yes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e220 (66.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; No\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e77 (23.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Don\u0026apos;t Know\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e32 (9.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAIDS is a curable disease\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Yes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e101 (30.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; No\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e152 (46.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Don\u0026apos;t Know\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e76 (23.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOnce infected with HIV sign and symptoms develop quickly\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Yes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e222 (67.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; No\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e54 (16.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Don\u0026apos;t Know\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e53 (16.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnybody can get HIV\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Yes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e102 (31.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; No\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e133 (40.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Don\u0026apos;t Know\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e94 (28.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAIDS is a hereditary disease\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Yes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22 (6.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; No\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e207 (62.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Don\u0026apos;t Know\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100 (30.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOnly high-risk people (PWID/MSM/FSW) can get HIV\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Yes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e264 (80.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; No\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e32 (9.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Don\u0026apos;t Know\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33 (10.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThere is a vaccine for HIV\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Yes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e47 (14.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; No\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e71 (21.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Don\u0026apos;t Know\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e211 (64.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUsing condom can prevent HIV\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Yes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e290 (88.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; No\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22 (6.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Don\u0026apos;t Know\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17 (5.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUsing healthy diet can prevent HIV\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Yes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e153 (46.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; No\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e103 (31.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Don\u0026apos;t Know\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e73 (22.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is HIV diagnosed?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Blood test\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e282 (85.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Urine test\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17 (5.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Blood/Urine test\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (0.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Don\u0026apos;t know\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29 (8.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is treatment of HIV available?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; All government hospitals\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e165 (50.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Designated hospitals\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e104 (31.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Treatment not available in Kashmir\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4 (1.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Don\u0026apos;t know\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e56 (17.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComprehensive knowledge about HIV*\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Yes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e244 (74.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 79px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; No\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 20px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e85 (25.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" style=\"width: 100px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e*HIV can be transmitted by sharing needles and unprotected sexual intercourse AND correct and consistent use of condoms can prevent HIV transmission AND sharing of food and utensils and insect bites cannot transmit HIV.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"619\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" style=\"width: 619px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 3: Injection Use Practices Among Participants(PWID).\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInjection use practices\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003en (%)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSince how long have you been using drugs (years)?\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eMedian (IQR)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4 (2-6)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSince how long have you been injecting drugs (months)?\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eMedian (IQR)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24 (9-36)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShared needles in past one month\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e132 (30.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e297 (69.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e429\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhen you injected with others last time, how many used the same needle?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e132 (30.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e76 (17.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e130 (30.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e54 (12.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026ge; 3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37 (8.6%)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e429\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDid you clean the needle before use? (n = 297)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18 (6.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e279 (93.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e297\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCleaning practices (n = 279)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWater\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e234 (83.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBoiling\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14 (5.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFlame\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3 (1.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNormal Saline\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2 (0.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisinfectant\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (0.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMore than one method\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25 (9.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 504px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e279\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"572\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"5\" style=\"width: 572px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 4: Sexual practices and Condom Use by Marital Status\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"3\" valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 219px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarital status\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTotal\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarried\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUnmarried\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDivorced\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDid you have sex in last one month?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24 (16%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e90 (32%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (33%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e115 (27%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e119 (80%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e186 (67%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (33%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e306 (71%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrefer not to answer\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2 (1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (33%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8 (2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e148\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e278\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e429\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDid you use condom during last sex?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11 (46%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e41 (46%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0 (0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e52 (45%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13 (54%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e49 (54%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (100%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e63 (55%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e90\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e115\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo you always use condom during sex?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6 (25%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27 (30%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0 (0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33 (29%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot always\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9 (38%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39 (43%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (100%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e49 (43%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDon\u0026apos;t use at all\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7 (29%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10 (11%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0 (0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17 (15%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrefer not to answer\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2 (8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14 (16%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0 (0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16 (14%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e90\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e115\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo you currently have a steady (same)\u003cbr\u003e\u0026nbsp; sexual partner?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15 (63%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39 (43%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (100%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55 (48%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4 (17%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17 (19%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0 (0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21 (18%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrefer not to answer\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (21%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34 (38%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0 (0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39 (34%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e90\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e115\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn last one month, did you have sex\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr\u003e\u0026nbsp;with more than one partner?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (25%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11 (65%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12 (57%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3 (75%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (29%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8 (38%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrefer not to answer\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0 (0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDid you pay for the sex or arrange it\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr\u003e\u0026nbsp;with other means?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (25%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4 (24%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (24%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3 (75%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12 (71%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15 (71%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrefer not to answer\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0 (0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 279px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 74px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"640\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" style=\"width: 640px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 5: Risk Perceptions about HIV Infection among the participants(PWID).\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRisk perception about HIV infection\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003en (%)\u003cbr\u003e\u0026nbsp;(n = 329)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is your gut feeling about how likely you are to get infected with HIV?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eExtremely unlikely\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e49 (14.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eVery unlikely\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e65 (19.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSomewhat likely\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e130 (39.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eVery likely\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e59 (17.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eExtremely likely\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26 (7.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eI worry about getting infected with HIV\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNone of the time\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e57 (17.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRarely\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e52 (15.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSome of the time\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e105 (31.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA moderate amount of time\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e79 (24.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA lot of time\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24 (7.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAll of the time\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12 (3.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eI am sure I will not get infected with HIV\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eStrongly disagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21 (6.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSomewhat disagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e125 (38.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e71 (21.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSomewhat agree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37 (11.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e47 (14.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eStrongly agree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28 (8.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGetting HIV is something I have thought about\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNever thought about\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e59 (17.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRarely thought about\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e60 (18.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThought about some of the time\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e168 (51.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 525px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThought about often\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 115px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e42 (12.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"564\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"5\" style=\"width: 564px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 6: Comprehensive knowledge of HIV by Participant Characteristics\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eParticipant characteristics\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTotal\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" style=\"width: 248px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComprehensive knowledge of HIV\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ep-value\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYes\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNo\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDistrict\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSrinagar\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e165\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e132 (80.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33 (20.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.008\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBaramulla\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e164\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e112 (68.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e52 (31.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAge (years)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18-24\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e156\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e113 (72.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e43 (27.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"4\" style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.497\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25-29\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e93\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e69 (74.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24 (25.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30-34\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e47\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e32 (68.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15 (31.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026ge;35\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30 (90.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3 (9.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarital status\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMarried\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e105\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e75 (71.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30 (28.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.515\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eUnmarried\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e221\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e167 (75.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e54 (24.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDivorced\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2 (66.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (33.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEducation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIlliterate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4 (44.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (55.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"8\" style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePassed 5th class\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12 (57.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9 (42.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePassed 8th class\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e54\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37 (68.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17 (31.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePassed 10th class\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e78\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e60 (76.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18 (23.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePassed 12th class\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e95\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e70 (73.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25 (26.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGraduate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31 (79.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8 (20.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePost-graduate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11 (91.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (8.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eProfessional course/training\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e19 (90.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2 (9.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIncome\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;25000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e43\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30 (69.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13 (30.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"5\" style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.054\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15001-25000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24 (61.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15 (38.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5001-15000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e164\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e125 (76.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39 (23.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026le;5000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9 (64.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (35.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo income of my own\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e69\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e56 (81.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13 (18.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOccupation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSelf-employed\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e103\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e71 (68.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e32 (31.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDependent on parents\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e77\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e63 (81.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14 (18.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"6\" style=\"width: 64px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.012\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDriver\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e48\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40 (83.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8 (16.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSalaried\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e42\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31 (73.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11 (26.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLabourer\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e36\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24 (66.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12 (33.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eStreet vendor\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9 (60.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6 (40.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 207px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOthers\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 45px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 126px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6 (75.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 122px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2 (25.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"5\" style=\"width: 564px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003eChi-square test;\u003csup\u003e\u0026nbsp;b\u003c/sup\u003eFisher\u0026apos;s Exact Test\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":true,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"HIV/AIDS, People who inject drugs (PWID), risk perception, knowledge and practices, harm reduction, Kashmir","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7532591/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7532591/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBackground:\u003c/strong\u003eInjecting drug use is a significant driver of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, yet limited data exist on awareness, behaviors, and risk perceptions among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Kashmir. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention, determine injecting practices, and evaluate self-assessed HIV risk among PWID in the districts of Srinagar and Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethods:\u003c/strong\u003e A cross-sectional study was conducted among male PWID registered at High-Risk Group (HRG) intervention sites under the Jammu and Kashmir AIDS Control Society (JKACS). Participants were selected using simple random sampling from the registry, with a calculated sample size (407). Data were collected through structured interviews, focusing on HIV/AIDS knowledge, injecting behaviors, and perceived risk of HIV infection.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResults:\u003c/strong\u003e While 76.7% of participants were aware of HIV, comprehensive knowledge was demonstrated by only 57%. Misconceptions were prevalent: 66.9% equated HIV with AIDS, 30.8% believed AIDS is curable, and 46.8% thought a healthy diet could prevent HIV. Stigmatizing views persisted, with 80.2% perceiving HIV as confined to high-risk groups. Risky injecting practices were alarmingly common, with 68.3% reporting needle reuse, 69.7% sharing needles during their last injection, and 83.8% relying on ineffective water cleaning methods. Sexual practices further elevated HIV risk, with only 28% consistently using condoms, 21.9% reporting multiple partners, and 20.3% engaging in transactional sex. Self-assessed HIV risk revealed varied perceptions, with 25.8% considering themselves \"very likely\" to contract HIV, 35.4% underestimating their risk, and 37.5% rarely or never reflecting on it.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConclusions:\u003c/strong\u003e The study underscores critical gaps in HIV/AIDS knowledge, widespread high-risk injecting practices, and inconsistent risk perception among PWID in Kashmir. These findings highlight the urgent need for culturally tailored harm reduction programs that address misconceptions, promote safer injecting behaviors, and enhance HIV risk awareness in this vulnerable population.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Awareness of HIV/AIDS among People who Inject Drugs in two Districts of Kashmir,India","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-09-23 18:55:21","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7532591/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"692a31af-5b1d-46b3-af5d-3ca025ff89b1","owner":[],"postedDate":"September 23rd, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-01-21T12:10:10+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-09-23 18:55:21","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-7532591","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-7532591","identity":"rs-7532591","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}