Individual factors contributing to HIV serostatus disclosure to partners among mothers on ART at Kiyunga Health Centre IV, Luuka District. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71020/g7wprz81Keywords:
HIV serostatus disclosure, Mothers on ART, individual factors, HIV diagnosis, Financial stability, Health educationAbstract
Background:
The study aimed to identify the individual factors contributing to HIV serostatus disclosure to partners among mothers on ART at Kiyunga Health Centre IV, Luuka District.
Methodology:
A descriptive cross-sectional study using quantitative methods was conducted among 96 HIV-positive mothers on ART at Kiyunga Health Centre IV, Luuka District. Participants on ART for at least six months were recruited consecutively using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire administered face-to-face or self-administered where privacy was preferred. Data were checked, coded, entered into Microsoft Excel, and analysed manually using tally sheets. Findings were presented using frequency tables, bar graphs, pie charts, and narratives. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained.
Results:
Among 96 respondents, 54 (56.3%) were aged 26–35 years, 18 (18.8%) were aged 15–25 years, and 24 (25.0%) were aged 36 years or above. Regarding individual factors, 54 (56.3%) had known their HIV status for more than two years, while 8 (8.3%) had known it for less than six months. Stable income was reported by 50 (52.1%) respondents, whereas 10 (10.4%) had no income. Concerning education, 50 (52.1%) had higher education, 20 (20.8%) secondary education, 18 (18.8%) primary education, and 8 (8.3%) had no education. Household income was high among 50 (52.1%), moderate among 18 (18.8%), low among 16 (16.7%), and very low among 12 (12.5%). Regarding relationship status, 54 (56.3%) were married, 22 (22.9%) had stable relationships, 12 (12.5%) were in new relationships, and 8 (8.3%) were not in relationships.
Conclusion:
Individual factors such as long duration since HIV diagnosis, financial stability, higher education, and stable marital relationships contributed positively to HIV serostatus disclosure among mothers on ART.
Recommendation:
The Ministry of Health should provide biannual training for healthcare workers to strengthen HIV disclosure counseling in ART clinics.
References
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