This study was done to describe the characteristics of clients initializing voluntary HIV counseling and testing (HIV-VCT) service at Addis Ababa referral hospital and to identify factors associated with a positive serological test. Two third of attendees were women(68%). The majority of those who took the test were 20-29 years(62%) and single(74%). Most had primary or secondary education(98%). The major reason given for taking the test by both genders was, ‘just to know their HIV status’. Knowledge about transmission was high. Mutual monogamy with an HIV negative person was the most preferred method of HIV prevention(74%). Reported condom use during sex with a casual sexual partner was high(70%), however, ‘irregular’ use was reported most commonly. Condom use was lowest among women, the unemployed, the less educated and respondents with low monthly income. The estimated prevalence of HIV infection among clients of HIV-VCT service was high(28%). Factors associated with a positive serological test were being 30-60 years, currently married, having low educational level, being currently unemployed, having a higher perception of personal risk of infection, having injections at locally available clinics and having sex with a spouse. HIV-VCT service seemed to attract literate, more educated, young people in the age group 20-29 years, women and single individuals. The high prevalence of infection among HIV-VCT clients indicated that the service attracted individuals at risk for infection. Given the high prevalence of HIV in Ethiopia, and the apparent acceptance of HIV-VCT among high-risk groups, this strategy should be made widely available and affordable.
Learning Objectives: List and discuss the characteristics of clients seeking HIV testing at an Ethiopian hospital and the factors associated with a positive test. Discuss the findings of the study and how they can be applied to the accessibility and feasibility of HIV voluntary testing and counseling in high risk urban areas in parts of sub-Saharan Africa. Weigh the benefit of making VCT available to a population that has apparent acceptance of this type of testing.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, International Reproductive Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: CARE
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employment