Knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices related to AIDS among Montreal residents of Haitian origin.

We used interviews of 268 subjects to ascertain knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices related to AIDS among Montrealers of Haitian origin, from November 1987 through October 1988. The questions on knowledge included items on general knowledge about the disease (prevention of AIDS, treatment, nature and manifestations of the disease, screening and high-risk groups), and more specific questions about modes of HIV-1 transmission. The average correct answers to questions on general knowledge about AIDS was 81%. The questions on HIV-1 transmission concerned both modes of infection that are scientifically established, and other modes that are not scientifically recognized. The average correct answers to questions on scientifically recognized modes of infection was 94% and the average correct answers for modes of transmission that are not scientifically accepted was 74%. The attitudes and beliefs of Montrealers of Haitian origin toward persons with AIDS was only moderately favourable. Attitudes and beliefs toward condom promotion were very positive. The percentage of subjects reporting male homosexuality or injection drug use was extremely small. 23% of subjects who had experienced sexual intercourse reported that they had two or more partners during the 12 months preceding the survey.