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Risk factors for HIV-infection in a male population in Coast Province of Kenya : analysis of a cross-sectional survey


Document type: mthesis
Download file(s): 186296 (693 KB)
Abstract: BACKGROUND: In Sub-Saharan Africa women are disproportionably affected by HIV/AIDS. They are often not in a position to protect themselves from HIV/AIDS. Research focusing on HIV-prevention for men will benefit these women. METHODS: After a literature search on risk behaviour in men for acquiring HIV/AIDS, a cross sectional survey done amongst 1606 men in Coast Province in Kenya was analysed. FINDINGS: Two-third of the men were at high-risk for contracting HIV/AIDS, but self-perceived risk was low. During the last commercial sex act, a condom was used in 82%, with the last non-commercial sex act in 27%. Bivariate logistical analyses showed that age, marital status, profession, symptoms of STI, alcohol use, HIV testing and the number of sex partners were associated with unprotected sex. Multivariate analyses showed that being married (AOR 6.82), regular alcohol use (AOR 0.62), a higher number of commercial sex partners (AOR 0.81) and a recent STI (AOR 0.36) were independently associated with unprotected sex in the last sexual act. DISCUSSION: The number of men that fall into a high risk category for HIV is high. Self-perceived risk however is low. This needs to change in order to change behaviour. The link between high condom use and commercial sex is encouraging. The relation between alcohol and unprotected sex is not in line with other studies. CONCLUSION: Many ordinary men in Kenya are not aware of the risk they have of acquiring or transmitting HIV/AIDS. Improving their knowledge on risk factors may change their behaviour and protect women.
Authors: Wit - van Lenthe, M. de
Country: Kenya
Category: Research
Department: Development Policy & Practice
Institute: KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Keywords: HIV and AIDS , reproductive health , men
Language: eng
Organization: KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
PAGE: vi, 101
Year: 2010
Region: East Africa
Right: © 2010 de Wit - van Lenthe
Subject: Health and Nutrition
Title: Risk factors for HIV-infection in a male population in Coast Province of Kenya : analysis of a cross-sectional survey
Training: Master in International Health (MIH)