ONAPHIE NYERHOVWO MIRACLE

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are illnesses primarily spread through sexual contact. They include treatable infections such as gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia, as well as incurable but manageable conditions like HIV, herpes simplex virus, human papillomavirus (HPV), and hepatitis B. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and perception of STIs among adolescents in secondary schools within Ekosodin community, Benin City, Edo State. A descriptive research design was adopted, involving 525 senior secondary students from four public schools, with a sample size of 397 selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, validated by the supervisor, and tested for reliability using the test-retest method. Analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, including frequency counts and percentages, with results presented in tables. Findings revealed that most adolescents (78.36%) were aware of STIs, and a significant proportion (85.48%) recognized that risky sexual behaviors increase vulnerability to infections, leading to serious health consequences. Based on these outcomes, it is recommended that STI education be integrated into school curricula and that awareness campaigns through media be strengthened.