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Carlos S, Reina G, Burgueño E, Makonda B, de Irala J, Beltramo C, Díaz Herráez P, Burgo CLD. Prevalence of Paid Sex and Associated Factors Among Women and Men Attending HIV Voluntary Counseling and Testing in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo: A Prospective Cohort. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:3625-3637. [PMID: 39147958 PMCID: PMC11390826 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02939-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Paid sex is associated with HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, which are highly prevalent in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, few data exist on this sexual practice among the general population in SSA, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where data on paid sex mainly comes from sex workers. In the DRC, most HIV Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) centers do not discuss paid sex as a risk factor. Thus, we aimed to analyze the prevalence of paid sex, its associated factors and association with HIV among women and men attending HIV VCT at a reference hospital in Kinshasa. From 2016 to 2018, the Observational Kinshasa AIDS Initiative cohort analyzed the impact of HIV VCT on changes in HIV knowledge, attitudes, and sexual behaviors at follow-up. Participants aged 15-69 years were HIV tested and interviewed at baseline and at 6- and 12-month follow-ups. At baseline, participants were asked about their history of "ever" having had exchanged sex for money. At both follow-ups, the frequency of this practice was referred to as "the previous 6 months." Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out to evaluate the prevalence of paid sex, its associated factors, and the association between paid sex and HIV. Statistical analyses were performed with Stata 15.1. Among 797 participants at baseline, 10% of those sexually experienced reported having ever had paid sex (18% men and 4% women, p < 0.001). At 6 and 12-month follow-ups, 5% and 2%, respectively. Paid sex was significantly and independently associated with being male (aOR = 2.7; 95% CI = 1.4-5.2), working or studying (aOR = 2.8; 95% CI = 1.5-5.0), daily newspaper reading (aOR = 4.4; 95% CI = 1.7-11.2); daily/weekly alcohol consumption (aOR = 3.3; 95% CI = 1.8-6.1), first sexual intercourse before age 15 years (aOR = 2.3; 95% CI = 1.1-5.0), multiple sexual partners (aOR = 4.1; 95% CI = 2.2-7.7), and extragenital sexual practices (aOR = 2.4; 95% CI = 1.3-4.4). A high religiosity (daily/weekly church attendance and praying) was inversely associated with paid sex (aOR = 0.1; 95% CI = 0.0-0.4). The high prevalence of paid sex among people attending HIV VCT in Kinshasa, associated with other sexual and consumption risk behaviors, highlights the need to include paid sex among the risk factors mentioned in HIV prevention counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Carlos
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Institute for Culture and Society, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Gabriel Reina
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain.
- Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Department, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pio XII Av, 36, 31008, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Eduardo Burgueño
- Soins Primaires Monkole, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
- Faculté de Médecine, Université Officielle de Mbujimayi, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Benit Makonda
- CEFA-Monkole, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Jokin de Irala
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Institute for Culture and Society, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Carlos Beltramo
- Institute for Culture and Society, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Cristina Lopez-Del Burgo
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Institute for Culture and Society, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
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de Aguirre PM, Carlos S, Pina-Sánchez M, Mbikayi S, Burgueño E, Tendobi C, Chiva L, Holguín Á, Reina G. High pre-Delta and early-Omicron SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence detected in dried blood samples from Kinshasa (D.R. Congo). J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29529. [PMID: 38516764 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Studies on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in sub-Saharan Africa have yielded varying results, although authors universally agree the real burden surpasses reported cases. The primary objective of this study was to determine SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among patients attending Monkole Hospital in Kinshasa (D.R. Congo). The secondary objective was to evaluate the analytic performance of two chemiluminescence platforms: Elecsys® (Roche) and VirClia® (Vircell) on dried blood spot samples (DBS). The study population (N = 373) was recruited in two stages: a mid-2021 blood donor cohort (15.5% women) and a mid-2022 women cohort. Crude global seroprevalence was 61% (53.9%-67.8%) pre-Delta in 2021 and 90.2% (84.7%-94.2%) post-Omicron in 2022. Anti-spike (S) antibody levels significantly increased from 53.1 (31.8-131.3) U/mL in 2021 to 436.5 (219.3-950.5) U/mL in 2022 and were significantly higher above 45 years old in the 2022 population. Both platforms showed good analytic performance on DBS samples: sensitivity was 96.8% for IgG (antiN/S) (93.9%-98.5%) and 96.0% (93.0%-98.0%) for anti-S quantification. These results provide additional support for the notion that exposure to SARS-CoV-2 is more widespread than indicated by case-based surveillance and will be able to guide the pandemic response and strategy moving forward. Likewise, this study contributes evidence to the reliability of DBS as a tool for serological testing and diagnosis in resource-limited settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia Carlos
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA) Irunlarrea, 3, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Samclide Mbikayi
- Centre Hospitalier Monkole, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Eduardo Burgueño
- Centre Hospitalier Monkole, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Céline Tendobi
- Centre Hospitalier Monkole, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Luis Chiva
- Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - África Holguín
- Laboratorio Epidemiología Molecular VIH-1, Hospital Ramón y Cajal -IRYCIS y CIBERESP-RITIP, Madrid, Spain
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Katabwa JK, Mukuku O, Wembonyama SO. Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Urban Workers toward Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome: Results from a Cross-sectional Study in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo. GLOBAL JOURNAL OF MEDICAL, PHARMACEUTICAL, AND BIOMEDICAL UPDATE 2022. [DOI: 10.25259/gjmpbu_3_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective:
This study aims to describe knowledge, attitudes, and practices about human immunodeficiency virus/ acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) among a sample of 563 urban workers in Lubumbashi, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Material and Methods:
This was a cross-sectional study where workers’ knowledge of HIV/AIDS was measured through a French adaptation of the Brief HIV Knowledge Questionnaire.
Results:
Overall, the level of knowledge of participating workers was poor (81.9%). Working in a private company (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.0 [1.2–3.3]) and having previously tested for HIV/AIDS (aOR = 2.5 [1.5–4.3]) were associated with good knowledge level about HIV/AIDS.
Conclusion:
Our results highlight the importance of implementing different awareness and education strategies for workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Kabongo Katabwa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo,
| | - Olivier Mukuku
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo,
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Comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge and HIV testing among men in sub-Saharan Africa: a multilevel modelling. J Biosoc Sci 2021; 54:975-990. [PMID: 34736542 DOI: 10.1017/s0021932021000560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the association between comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge and HIV testing among men in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Data were taken from the most recent (2010-2019) Demographic and Health Survey men's recode files of 29 countries in SSA. A total of 104,398 men who had complete information on all the variables of interest were included in the study. The outcome variable was HIV testing. A multilevel logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the association between comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge and HIV testing. The results of the fixed effects model were presented as adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The average prevalences of HIV testing and comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge among men in SSA were 53.5% and 50.8% respectively. Rwanda and Niger recorded the highest (93.6%) and lowest prevalences (9.8%) respectively. The prevalence of comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge among men in the 29 countries was 50.8%, with the highest in Rwanda (76.4%) and the lowest in Benin (31.1%). Men who had no comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge were less likely to test for HIV compared with those who had comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge (AOR=0.59, CI: 0.57-0.60). Men who were older than 20 years, married or cohabiting, with at least secondary education, in the richest wealth quintile, exposed to mass media, used condoms and with multiple sexual partners were more likely to test for HIV. To improve HIV testing among men in SSA, this study recommends that policymakers and stakeholders step up comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge sensitization and education using effective tools such as mass media.
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Ncitakalo N, Mabaso M, Joska J, Simbayi L. Factors associated with external HIV-related stigma and psychological distress among people living with HIV in South Africa. SSM Popul Health 2021; 14:100809. [PMID: 34027011 PMCID: PMC8121694 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV-related stigma and psychological distress among people living with HIV (PLHIV) pose a public health challenge in most African countries. This study aims to investigate the association between HIV-related stigmatizing attitudes and psychological distress amongst PLHIV in South Africa using the 2012 nationally representative population-based household survey. METHODS The data used in the analysis were collected using a multi-stage stratified cluster sampling design. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with stigma among PLHIV with psychological distress. A total of 2521 HIV positive individuals that responded to the question on psychological distress, 34.3% had psychological distress and 37.9% experienced high levels of HIV related stigmatizing attitudes. Stigmatizing attitudes among PLHIV with psychological distress were significantly less likely among those with secondary level education [aOR = 0.67 (95% CI: 0.44-1.01), p = 0.050], those with correct knowledge about HIV and rejection of myths about HIV [aOR = 0.58 (95% CI: 0.38-0.89), p = 0.013], and those who ever tested for HIV [aOR = 0.65 (95% CI: 0.42-1.01), p = 0.054]. CONCLUSION The findings suggest a need to reinvigorate stigma-reduction interventions in the national HIV response with emphasis on HIV awareness and education campaigns. In addition, HIV testing services should be reinforced through communication strategies targeted against HIV stigmatization, discrimination and fear. There is also a need to continuously engage PLHIV in programs through counselling and support interventions for acceptance of HIV positive status and to help them cope with HIV-related stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Musawenkosi Mabaso
- Human and Social Capabilities Research Division, Human Sciences Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - John Joska
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry & Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Leickness Simbayi
- Office of the Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
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Egbe TO, Nge CA, Ngouekam H, Asonganyi E, Nsagha DS. Stigmatization among People Living with HIV/AIDS at the Kumba Health District, Cameroon. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2021; 19:2325958219899305. [PMID: 31908184 PMCID: PMC6947670 DOI: 10.1177/2325958219899305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
We determined the level, type of stigma, and risk factors associated with stigmatization of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) by conducting a cross-sectional study from April to June 2018 in 3 HIV treatment centers in the Kumba Health District (KHD), Cameroon. We reviewed hospital registers, conducted focus group discussions, and administered structured questionnaires. For data analysis, we used the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20.0. We recorded a total stigma index score of 59.1. Internal stigma (odds ratio [OR] 2.91; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.74-4.98) was common in PLWHA. Also, younger age <30 years (adjusted OR [AOR]: 0.39; 95% CI: 0.17-0.94) was linked with stigma reduction while low level of education (AOR: 1.74; 95% CI: 1.02-2.97) increased the stigma level. HIV-related stigma is pervasive in the lives of PLWHA, with most of them having internal stigmatization. Appropriate health education on HIV will be crucial in reducing stigmatization in the KHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Obinchemti Egbe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon.,Department of Public Health and Hygiene, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Cynthia Adanze Nge
- Department of Public Health and Hygiene, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Hermann Ngouekam
- Department of Public Health and Hygiene, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | | | - Dickson Shey Nsagha
- Department of Public Health and Hygiene, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
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Nursalam N, Sukartini T, Arifin H, Pradipta RO, Mafula D, Ubudiyah M. Determinants of the Discriminatory Behavior Experienced by People Living with HIV in Indonesia: A Cross-sectional Study of the Demographic Health Survey. Open AIDS J 2021. [DOI: 10.2174/1874613602115010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction:
The discriminatory behavior experienced by People Living With HIV (PLWH) remains an unresolved problem in Indonesia. The aims of this research were to determine the factors associated with the discriminatory behavior experienced by PLWH in Indonesia.
Methods:
This study used cross-sectional design data by processing secondary data from the Indonesian Demographic Health Survey (IDHS) conducted in 2017. The total sample in this study was 15,413 records obtained via the two-stage stratified cluster sampling technique. The variables in this study were knowledge, information, socioeconomic and demographic details and the discriminatory behavior experienced by PLWH. The instrument refers to IDHS 2017. The data were analyzed using a chi-squared test and multinomial logistic regression.
Results:
The results obtained show that approximately 78.87% of respondents exhibited discriminatory behavior against PLWH in Indonesia. Respondents who had more knowledge about HIV [RRR: 25.35; CI: 2.85, 225.18] and who had earnings [RRR: 2.15; CI: 1.18, 3.92] were more at risk of discriminatory behavior than others. Respondents who lived in a rural area were less likely to engage in discriminatory behavior against PLWH than those who lived in urban areas [RRR: 0.51; CI: 0.29, 0.91].
Conclusion:
An increased understanding of HIV-AIDS and Indonesian people's acceptance of PLWH can occur through the provision of accurate information that is designed to prevent discriminatory behavior against PLWH. The government can consider this problem and further related policies so that PLWH can coexist in society and enjoy the same rights as those living without discrimination.
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Jones MU, Ramadhani HO, Adebajo S, Gaydos CA, Kokogho A, Baral SD, Nowak RG, Ake JA, Liu H, Charurat ME, Robb ML, Crowell TA. Seizing opportunities for intervention: Changing HIV-related knowledge among men who have sex with men and transgender women attending trusted community centers in Nigeria. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229533. [PMID: 32119701 PMCID: PMC7051043 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge of HIV risk factors and reduction strategies is essential for prevention in key populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW). We evaluated factors associated with HIV-related knowledge among MSM and TGW and the impact of engagement in care at trusted community health centers in Nigeria. METHODS The TRUST/RV368 cohort recruited MSM and TGW in Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria via respondent driven sampling. During study visits every three months, participants underwent structured interviews to collect behavioral data, received HIV education, and were provided free condoms and condom compatible lubricants. Five HIV-related knowledge questions were asked at enrollment and repeated after 9 and 15 months. The mean number of correct responses was calculated for each visit with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Multivariable Poisson regression was used to calculate adjusted risk ratios and CIs for factors associated with answering more knowledge questions correctly. RESULTS From March 2013 to April 2018, 2122 persons assigned male sex at birth were enrolled, including 234 TGW (11.2%). The mean number of correct responses at enrollment was 2.36 (95% CI: 2.31-2.41) and increased to 2.95 (95% CI: 2.86-3.04) and 3.06 (95% CI: 2.97-3.16) after 9 and 15 months in the study, respectively. Among 534 participants who completed all three HIV-related knowledge assessments, mean number of correct responses rose from 2.70 (95% CI: 2.60-2.80) to 3.02 (95% CI: 2.93-3.13) and then 3.06 (95% CI: 2.96-3.16). Factors associated with increased overall HIV-related knowledge included longer duration of study participation, HIV seropositivity, higher education level, and more frequent internet use. CONCLUSIONS There was suboptimal HIV-related knowledge among Nigerian MSM and TGW at that improved modestly with engagement in care. These data demonstrate unmet HIV education needs among Nigerian MSM and TGW and provide insights into modalities that could be used to address these needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milissa U. Jones
- Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Habib O. Ramadhani
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | - Charlotte A. Gaydos
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Afoke Kokogho
- U.S. Army Medical Research Directorate – Africa/Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
- HJF Medical Research International, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Stefan D. Baral
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Rebecca G. Nowak
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Julie A. Ake
- Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Hongjie Liu
- University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Manhattan E. Charurat
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Merlin L. Robb
- Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States of America
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Trevor A. Crowell
- Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States of America
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
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Badawi MM, SalahEldin MA, Idris AB, Hasabo EA, Osman ZH, Osman WM. Knowledge gaps of STIs in Africa; Systematic review. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0213224. [PMID: 31513584 PMCID: PMC6742237 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0213224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are ambiguous burden of tremendous health, social and economic consequences. The current systematic review was conducted in order to determine awareness and knowledge of Africans toward sexually transmitted infections, not only concerning HIV/AIDS, but also other STIs such as gonorrhea, syphilis, HBV, HCV and HPV. A systematic review of literature was conducted, studies were retrieved and selected after fulfilling the inclusion criteria as well as passing the assessment procedure. Related data was extracted, quantitative analysis was conducted among participants who responded to questions related to HIV, HBV, HCV, HPV or STIs knowledge, sensitivity analysis as well as subgroup analysis were also conducted. Seventy four articles addressing knowledge among 35 African countries were included and 136 questions were analyzed and synthesized. The question "does using condom reduces HIV transmission?" was answered by 1,316,873 Africans in 35 countries, 66.8% [95% Cl; 62.6, 70.9] answered yes. While the question "is sexual contact a possible route of HBV transmission?" was answered by 7,490 participants in 5 countries; 42.5% [95% Cl; 20.4, 64.7] answered yes. The differences observed among populations are highlighting the possibility for improvement by directing light toward specific populations as well as addressing specific awareness knowledge to ensure that the general as well as the related specific preventive knowledge is improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwan M. Badawi
- Medical Unit, Higher Academy for Strategic and Security Studies, Alamal Hospital, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Maryam A. SalahEldin
- Medical Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Alaa B. Idris
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Bahri, Khartoum, Sudan
| | | | - Zeinab H. Osman
- Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Sudan International University, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Widad M. Osman
- Faculty of Medicine, National Ribat University, Khartoum, Sudan
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Dzah SM, Tarkang EE, Lutala PM. Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding HIV/AIDS among senior high school students in Sekondi-Takoradi metropolis, Ghana. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2019; 11:e1-e11. [PMID: 31170791 PMCID: PMC6556927 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v11i1.1875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2018] [Revised: 10/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Ghana, youths aged 15–24 years constitute the group most vulnerable to HIV infection. Inadequate knowledge, negative attitudes and risky practices are major hindrances to preventing the spread of HIV. Aim This study sought to investigate the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding HIV/AIDS among senior high school (SHS) students. Setting Sekondi-Takoradi metropolis, Ghana. Methods A descriptive, cross-sectional design was adopted, using a validated self-administered questionnaire, to collect data from a stratified sample of 294 senior students selected from three participating high schools in August 2017. The data collected were analysed using Stata version 12. Descriptive and inferential statistics were at a significance level of 0.05. Results Among the participants, 61.6% had good knowledge about HIV/AIDS, 172 (58.5%) showed positive attitudes towards people living with HIV (PLHIV) and 79.1% reported HIV-related risky practices. We found a significant association between age and attitudes (p < 0.05). Poor knowledge was associated with being Muslim (aOR = 1.51 and 1.93; CI 1.19–1.91; p = 0.00) and being a student from school ‘F’ senior high school (F SHS) (aOR = 1.93; CI 1.71–2.18; p = 0.00). Bad attitude towards PLHIV and HIV was associated with ages 15–19 years (aOR = 3.20[2.58–3.96]; p = 0.03) p confirmed; and single marital status (aOR = 1.79[1.44–2.23]; p = 0.00). Bad practices were associated with ages 15–19 years (aOR = 1.72[1.41–2.11]; p = 0.08), belonging to the Akans ethnic group (aOR = 1.57[1.26–1.97]; p = 0.00) or being single (aOR = 1.79[1.44–2.23]; p = 0.00). Associations between misconceptions and HIV transmission were found: HIV can be transmitted by a handshake (aOR = 3.45[2.34–5.68]; p = 0.000), HIV can be cured (aOR = 2.01[2.12–5.04]; p = 0.004) and HIV/AIDS can be transmitted by witchcraft (aOR = 3.12[3.21–7.26]; p = 0.001). Conclusion Participants generally had inadequate knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS, manifested negative attitudes towards PLHIV and also engaged in risky practices that might predispose them to HIV transmission. Our findings underscore the need for culturally adapted and age-oriented basic HIV information for youths in the metropolis on misconceptions about HIV transmission, negative attitudes of students towards PLHIV as well as the risky practices of students regarding HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seraphine M Dzah
- Department of Population and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho.
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Carlos S, López-del Burgo C, Ndarabu A, Osorio A, Rico-Campà A, Reina G, Burgueño E, de Irala J. Heterosexual oral and anal sex in Kinshasa (D.R.Congo): Data from OKAPI prospective cohort. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0210398. [PMID: 30650137 PMCID: PMC6334946 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0210398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted infections can be spread through oral and anal heterosexual sex. There are few data on these practices in Sub-Saharan Africa. We analyzed the prevalence of heterosexual oral and anal sex among HIV Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) attendees in Kinshasa and the associated sociodemographics, perceptions and behavioral factors. METHODS OKAPI (Observational Kinshasa AIDS Prevention Initiative) prospective cohort study. It evaluates the VCT impact on HIV-related knowledge and behaviors at 6 and 12-month follow-up. Since April 2016 until April 2018, 797 persons aged 15-59 years were HIV tested and replied to a baseline interview, including information about anal and oral sex. Descriptive, bi- and multivariate analyses were performed using baseline data. RESULTS Among 718 sexually active participants reporting heterosexual sex, 59% had had oral sex, 22% anal sex and 18% both practices. Among participants reporting "not" having had sex, 6% reported oral sex, 3% anal sex and 1% both. Oral sex was associated with a daily use of the Internet/mobile phone, perceiving low community HIV risk, reporting HIV-related behaviors (multiple partners, inconsistent condom use, anal, paid and forced sex) and having been pregnant. Being married-monogamous was inversely associated with oral sex. Anal sex was directly associated with having other risk sexual behaviors. CONCLUSIONS Oral and anal sex were common among people reporting heterosexual sex in Kinshasa. Perceiving a low community HIV risk and having other sexual risk behaviors are associated with these practices, which are commonly not considered as risky despite their strong association with HIV/STIs. They need to be considered when designing preventive strategies in Kinshasa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Carlos
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | - Cristina López-del Burgo
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Alfonso Osorio
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- School of Education and Psychology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Anaïs Rico-Campà
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Centre Network on Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gabriel Reina
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Microbiology Service, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Eduardo Burgueño
- Monkole Hospital, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
- School of Medicine, University of Mwene-Ditu, Mwene-Ditu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Jokin de Irala
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
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Mulumeoderhwa M. 'It's not good to eat a candy in a wrapper': male students' perspectives on condom use and concurrent sexual partnerships in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. SAHARA J 2018; 15:89-102. [PMID: 30149788 PMCID: PMC6116706 DOI: 10.1080/17290376.2018.1516160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper reports on fieldwork carried out in 2011 with aim to investigate young men's perspectives about condoms use, concurrent sexual partnerships and sex in the context of HIV/AIDS. This study employed a qualitative approach to collect data from 28 boys aged 16-20 from two urban and two rural high schools in South Kivu province. Four focus group discussions and 20 individual interviews were conducted among them. The findings showed that most students identified condoms as unsafe and untrustworthy. Reasons given for the mistrust of condoms were related to the belief that condoms do not give enough protection from Sexually Transmitted Infections, HIV and pregnancies. Most participants believe that condoms have a 'small hole' or are unreliable and are therefore not effective in prevention. They also mentioned that condoms encourage inappropriate sexual activity. They prefer flesh-to-flesh sex rather than protected sex using a condom. However, a few participants acknowledged the importance of condom use. Despite the risk of HIV transmission, boys believe that it is appropriate for them to have concurrent sexual partnerships. They justified the concurrent sexual partnerships as a way of ensuring that they cannot miss a girl to satisfy their sexual desire. Given the boys' failure to use condoms and their strong inclination to concurrent sexual partnerships, there is a need for heath groups and stakeholders within the area to increase awareness about condoms' effectiveness and improve knowledge dissemination on Sexually Transmitted Diseases and how they are prevented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maroyi Mulumeoderhwa
- Faculty of Top Management, Institute for Reconciliation and Social Justice, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
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Whembolua GL, Conserve DF, Thomas K, Tshiswaka DI, Handler L. HIV serostatus disclosure in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: a systematic review. AIDS Care 2018; 31:489-493. [PMID: 30111174 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1510103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
HIV status disclosure among people living with HIV/AIDS has been shown to have a number of both personal and public health benefits, but rates of HIV status disclosure remain low in many African countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This systematic review uses the Disclosure Process Model to examine the factors involved in serostatus disclosure and nondisclosure to various persons in the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in the DRC, as well as the specific outcomes of their disclosure or nondisclosure. MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Global Health, and PsycINFO were searched and research studies were included if: (i) the study discussed disclosure of HIV status; (ii) the study population included HIV-infected people in DRC; and (iii) the study was published in English. Fourteen articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. Factors contributing to nondisclosure were generally associated with high stigma of HIV in adults and concern for emotional wellbeing when disclosing to HIV positive minors. Factors contributing to disclosure among adults were increased social support and religion. In disclosing to HIV positive minors, increasing age and health benefits were identified as approach goals that supported disclosure. The findings highlight the importance of understanding the avoidance and approach goals involved in HIV status disclosure among populations living in the DRC. Interventions and future research directed at increasing HIV disclosure among Congolese PLWHA should move beyond individual-level to consider multilevel factors including circumstantial social behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy-Lucien Whembolua
- a Department of Africana Studies , University of Cincinnati , Cincinnati , OH , USA
| | - Donaldson F Conserve
- b Arnold School of Public Health , University of South Carolina , Charleston , SC , USA
| | - Kirstyn Thomas
- a Department of Africana Studies , University of Cincinnati , Cincinnati , OH , USA
| | - Daudet Ilunga Tshiswaka
- c Department of Public Health , University of West Florida , 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola , FL , USA
| | - Lara Handler
- d Health Sciences Library , UNC Chapel Hill , CB 7585, Chapel Hill , NC , USA
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Carlos S, Lopez-Del Burgo C, Burgueño E, Martinez-Gonzalez MA, Osorio A, Ndarabu A, Passabosc C, de Irala J. Male condom use, multiple sexual partners and HIV: a prospective case-control study in Kinshasa (DRC). AIDS Care 2016; 29:772-781. [PMID: 27852108 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2016.1258450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
In the Democratic Republic of Congo no previous studies have assessed the factors associated with different patterns of condom use and with multiple sexual partners, and the association between condom use simultaneously taking into account multiple sexual partnerships, and HIV infection. We carried out a prospective case-control study. From December 2010 until June 2012, 1630 participants aged 15-49 getting HIV Voluntary Counseling and Testing in a hospital in Kinshasa were selected. Cases were new HIV diagnosis and controls were HIV-negative participants detected along the study period. We recruited 274 cases and 1340 controls that were interviewed about HIV-related knowledge, attitudes and behaviours. Among cases there was a high prevalence of multiple lifetime and concurrent sexual partnerships (89.8% and 20.4%, respectively) and most cases never used condoms with only 1.5% using them consistently. Condom use and multiple partnerships were associated with male, single and high-educated participants. An association was found between multiple lifetime partners and 'any condom use' (OR = 2.99; 95%CI: 2.14-4.19) but not with consistent use. Both having two or more multiple concurrent sexual partners or not using condoms were variables similarly and highly associated to HIV risk. The association found between having two or more concurrent sexual partners and HIV was slightly higher (OR = 3.58, 95%CI:2.31-5.56) than the association found between never condom use and HIV (OR = 3.38, 95%CI:1.15-9.93). We found a high prevalence of multiple lifetime sexual partners and an extremely high prevalence of inconsistent condom use, both strongly associated with HIV seropositivity. Local programmes would benefit from comprehensive interventions targeting all behavioural and sociocultural determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Carlos
- a Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department , University of Navarra , Pamplona , Spain.,b IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research , Pamplona , Spain.,c Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality , University of Navarra , Pamplona Spain
| | - Cristina Lopez-Del Burgo
- a Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department , University of Navarra , Pamplona , Spain.,b IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research , Pamplona , Spain.,c Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality , University of Navarra , Pamplona Spain
| | - Eduardo Burgueño
- d CEFA-Monkole , Kinshasa , Democratic Republic of the Congo.,e Department of Family Medicine and Primary Health Care , UPC - Protestant University in Congo, Kinshasa , Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Miguel Angel Martinez-Gonzalez
- a Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department , University of Navarra , Pamplona , Spain.,b IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research , Pamplona , Spain.,f CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBER obn), Spanish Government (ISCIII) , Madrid , Spain
| | - Alfonso Osorio
- b IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research , Pamplona , Spain.,c Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality , University of Navarra , Pamplona Spain.,g School of Education and Psychology , University of Navarra , Pamplona , Spain
| | - Adolphe Ndarabu
- h Monkole Hospital , Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Clément Passabosc
- i Department of Ophthalmology , Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Jokin de Irala
- a Preventive Medicine and Public Health Department , University of Navarra , Pamplona , Spain.,b IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research , Pamplona , Spain.,c Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality , University of Navarra , Pamplona Spain
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Carlos S, Nzakimuena F, Reina G, Lopez-Del Burgo C, Burgueño E, Ndarabu A, Osorio A, de Irala J. Factors that lead to changes in sexual behaviours after a negative HIV test: protocol for a prospective cohort study in Kinshasa. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:606. [PMID: 27439981 PMCID: PMC4955130 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3285-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Considering the high percentage of couples in which one or both members are HIV negative, the frequency of transmission among non-regular partners and the probabilities of non-disclosure, attention should be paid to people getting a negative HIV test at the Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT). Research has shown that a negative HIV test may be followed by a change in sexual behaviours. In Sub-Saharan Africa, where most HIV infections occur, there are few studies that have analysed the factors associated with changes in sexual risk behaviours after a negative HIV test at the VCT clinic. The aim of this project is to evaluate the specific factors associated with changes in sexual behaviours, three months after a negative result in an HIV test, and to analyse the effect of counseling and testing on HIV-related knowledge of participants in an outpatient centre of Kinshasa (Democratic Republic of Congo). Methods and design Prospective cohort study from December 2014 until March 2016. People 15–60 year old that received VCT at Monkole Hospital (Kinshasa) were followed three months after they got a negative HIV test. In a face-to-face interview, participants replied to a baseline and a follow-up research questionnaire on HIV-related knowledge, attitudes and behaviours. At follow-up respondents were also offered a new HIV test and additional HIV counseling. Four hundred and fifteen participants completed the baseline questionnaire and 363 (87 %) came back for their 3-month follow up. Discussion This is the first longitudinal study in the DRC that evaluates the factors associated with changes in sexual behaviours after a negative HIV test at the VCT. Participants attending the VCT services within a clinical setting are a good study population as they can be good transmitters of preventive information for other people with no access to health facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Carlos
- University of Navarra, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, C/Irunlarrea, 1. 31080, Pamplona, Spain. .,IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain. .,University of Navarra, Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Francis Nzakimuena
- CECFOR/Monkole Hospital, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.,University of Kinshasa, School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Gabriel Reina
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain.,Clinic University of Navarra, Clinical Microbiology Department, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Cristina Lopez-Del Burgo
- University of Navarra, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, C/Irunlarrea, 1. 31080, Pamplona, Spain.,IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain.,University of Navarra, Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Eduardo Burgueño
- University of Navarra, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, C/Irunlarrea, 1. 31080, Pamplona, Spain.,CECFOR/Monkole Hospital, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Adolphe Ndarabu
- CECFOR/Monkole Hospital, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Alfonso Osorio
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain.,University of Navarra, Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality, Pamplona, Spain.,University of Navarra, School of Education and Psychology, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Jokin de Irala
- University of Navarra, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, C/Irunlarrea, 1. 31080, Pamplona, Spain.,IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain.,University of Navarra, Institute for Culture and Society (ICS), Education of Affectivity and Human Sexuality, Pamplona, Spain
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16
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Cassell JA. Highlights from this issue. Br J Vener Dis 2015. [DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2015-052253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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