Objective To understand the effects of living environment on migrant construction workers' cognition to AIDS and related reasons so as to provide evidence for formulating measures to prevent AIDS in target population.
Methods A face to face questionnaire survey was conducted among 657 construction workers who were selected from 6 sites in Shanghai.
Results Living environment factors like marital status, income and jobs showed significant impacts on construction workers' sexual activities out of wedlock (P<0.01). The factors influencing the awareness rate of AIDS knowledge included monthly income, visit to relatives during the year or not, types of housing (collective dormitory or not), having residence permit in Shanghai or not, job title, etc (P<0.01). Marital status was found of significant effects on their attitude towards sexual behavior and AIDS patients (P<0.01). Only 69 (10.5%) participants agreed that "construction is an important profession", and as high as 42.92% agreed that "immigrant construction workers are under discrimination". Only 22.97% of the participants looked for residence in Shanghai. In addition, 97.1% of the respondents had never accepted a HIV test, and only 11.4% would seek STD specialized out-patient service if STD suspected.
Conclusion The living environment of construction workers is concerned due to their low income and education level, as well as the nature of migrating around. Low rates of AIDS cognition and correct use of condoms require more attention to their living condition and education on AIDS prevention.
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