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Abstract
What factors are associated with the disparity in the prevalence rates of HIV infection found among Africans and the other racial groups in South Africa?
L C Simbayi1, O Shisana1, M Colvin2, C Connolly2
1Human Sciences Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa; 2Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
Background: Africans have the highest HIV prevalence rates of all racial groups in South Africa. The present study investigated what factors are associated with this disparity.
Methods: A cross-sectional household survey was used to assess the relationship between various demographic, behavioural and socio-cultural factors and HIV status. A national multi-stage probability sample of 6 080 youth and adults in 2002 was used. Nurses administered questionnaires that measured various demographic, behavioural and socio-cultural factors and also tested participants for HIV infection.
Results: Comparisons on demographic variables among Africans who were HIV positive revealed that people who were female, had attained high school or matric education, were employed and living alone were more at risk . In terms of sexual behavioural risks, those with previous sexual experience, had sex with a sex worker, had used of drugs and had a history of sexually transmitted diseases were also more at risk. However, it was also found that those that had ever used a condom in their lifetime, had used a condom during the last intercourse, had a history of HIV testing, had knowledge about a partner’s HIV status, and had discussed HIV prevention with a partner were also at risk. As regards socio-cultural factors, those that had strongly felt discriminated against by race and also by ethnic group/language, and had consulted with a traditional healer were more at risk. Among other racial groups who were HIV positive, knowledge about a partner's HIV status and circumcision among males only were protective factors against HIV infection.
Conclusions: HIV/AIDS prevention programmes must continue to focus on some of the demographic, behavioural and socio-cultural factors that are risk factors for HIV infection especially among Africans in South Africa. It is however most encouraging that those who engage in high-risk behaviours engage in safer sex practices.
The XV International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
WePeD6475
Suggested Citation
" L C Simbayi , , et al.
What factors are associated with the disparity in the prevalence rates of HIV infection found among Africans and the other racial groups in South Africa?.
Poster Exhibition:
The XV International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
WePeD6475"
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