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Abstract
Willingness to seek voluntary HIV counseling and testing (VCT) among urban residents in South-West Nigeria
A.K. Adeneye1, P.S. Ogunro2, T.O. Ogungbamigbe3, P.O. Elemile4, O.A. Olowu5, A.A. Adeneye6, M.A. Mafe1
Background: Voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) is rapidly becoming an important component of HIV/AIDS prevention and care strategy in Nigeria. This study examined the knowledge, attitude and perception of VCT among residents of an urban community and the factors that determine their willingness to seek VCT preparatory to its operationalisation in the country.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was done using structured questionnaires in a household survey of 332 adults in Osogbo, Osun State, South-West Nigeria.
Results: Respondents’ ages ranged from 15 to 72 years, with a mean age of 32 years. Most respondents had formal education (82.6%) and were married (47.9%). 96.7% believed in the reality of AIDS, only 29.8% perceived being at risk of HIV infection. With 58.4% knowing the benefits of VCT, a smaller number (35.0%) had thought about testing and only 3.9% had knowingly been tested. With regard to willingness for blood screening (79.8%), 62.7% were willing to seek VCT with no attached cost, compared to 42.2% who expressed willingness to pay for a test. Perceived fears about VCT among respondents included outcome of test result and stigmatization. Most (78.0%) respondents were willing to seek anti-retroviral therapy if tested HIV-positive. Respondents’ knowledge of HIV/AIDS significantly influenced their willingness to seek VCT (p<0.05). Men were more willing to seek VCT and perceived being at risk of HIV than women. Those with higher education were more willing to be counseled and tested for HIV than those with lower education (p<0.05).
Conclusions: Results showed a high level of willingness to seek VCT among respondents, particularly among those with higher education. Although the actual willingness would be determined when VCT services are provided, nonetheless, there is an urgent need for more health education on HIV/AIDS in communities emphasizing the reality of AIDS, the risk of HIV infection and benefits of VCT.
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
CDC1172
Suggested Citation
"A.K.Adeneye, et al.
Willingness to seek voluntary HIV counseling and testing (VCT) among urban residents in South-West Nigeria.
:
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
CDC1172"
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