Knowledge, Attitude and Practices on H.E.A.R.T Advocacy among High School Students in a Municipality in Cebu Province

Abstract

Adolescent reproductive health remains a major public health concern due to the increasing risks of HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections, early sexual encounters, and teenage pregnancy. Despite ongoing health promotion efforts, gaps in adolescents’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding reproductive health continue to exist, highlighting the need for strengthened advocacy programs. This study determined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices on H.E.A.R.T. (HIV/AIDS, Early Sexual Encounters, Adolescent Sexuality, Reproductive Health, and Teenage Pregnancy) advocacy among high school students in a municipality in Cebu Province and examined the relationships among these variables. A descriptive-correlational research design was utilized involving 341 high school students selected through appropriate sampling procedures. Data were collected using a researcher-adapted questionnaire and analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation. Findings revealed that respondents demonstrated high knowledge, very positive attitudes, and high levels of practice regarding H.E.A.R.T. advocacy. Significant relationships were found between knowledge and attitude, knowledge and practice, and attitude and practice, indicating that these variables are interconnected in promoting healthy adolescent behaviors. The findings affirm Rogers’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) Model, which explains that knowledge influences attitudes and subsequently affects practices. Based on the findings, a H.E.A.R.T. Advocacy Enhancement Plan was developed to sustain positive outcomes and further strengthen adolescent reproductive health promotion in schools and communities.