Individual, social and healthcare-related factors contributing to new HIV infections among women aged 15-24 years at Mukono General Hospital, Mukono district. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71020/jwhr.v3i5.87Keywords:
Individual, social and healthcare-related factors, HIV infections, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, Mukono General HospitalAbstract
Background:
Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) continue to be a major global health tragedy despite intense efforts in international and local initiatives to address the pandemic. The study aimed at identifying the individual, social, and healthcare-related factors contributing to new HIV infections among women aged 15-24 years at Mukono General Hospital, Mukono district.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional research design was employed. The study population focused on women aged 15-24 years at Mukono General Hospital, Mukono district, with a sample size of 62 respondents using a simple random sampling method to select from the women aged 15-24 years. The researcher used Microsoft Excel to analyze the data.
Results:
39(63%) were single, 23(37%) were married. 52(84%) were well informed about the modes of HIV transmission. 50(81%) agree that using condoms can effectively prevent HIV transmission, unlike the 12(19%) who don’t believe it, and lastly, 36(58%) feel like substance use affects their decision-making towards safe sexual practices.
46(74%) agreed that low education levels increase the risk of acquiring HIV. 35(56%) agreed that limited access to healthcare facilities contributes to new HIV infections. 48(77%) agreed that poverty limits access to HIV prevention services such as HIV testing. 39(63%) reported limited access to HIV prevention services, while 23(37%) reported not to have faced a limited access. 26(42%) had experienced stigma or discrimination from healthcare providers.
Conclusion:
Insufficient knowledge without behavioral empowerment and supportive environments has not consistently translated into safe sexual practices.
Recommendation:
Strengthen youth mentorship and peer-support programs. Peer educators can effectively reach young women with messages about risk reduction, safe sexual practices, and the importance of regular HIV testing.
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