What is it about?
We explored the determinants of prior HIV counseling and testing (HCT) uptake among 787 individuals in long-term relationships in Kampala and Soroti districts of Uganda. We found that women (as opposed to men), individuals aged 25-29 years, and prior discussion between partners about the need for HIV testing were key factors that explained prior uptake of HCT services.
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Why is it important?
HIV infection among people in long-term relationships remains a critical public health issue. Between 17-43% of new HIV infections in Uganda originate from individuals in such relationships. Thus, understanding the factors that affect uptake of HIV testing services among individuals in long-term sexual relationships is critical for HIV prevention efforts among these individuals.
Perspectives
This research represents my interest in the area of HIV counseling and testing as it pertains to married individuals and couples. Study findings point to the importance of couple communication - individuals that had discussed HIV testing issues with their partners were more likely to report prior HIV testing than those that had not. To improve HIV testing uptake among couples, it is important to improve communication about HIV/AIDS issues between partners.
Dr. Joseph KB Matovu
Busitema University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Determinants of HIV Counseling and Testing Uptake among Individuals in Long-Term Sexual Relationships in Uganda, Current HIV Research, July 2014, Bentham Science Publishers,
DOI: 10.2174/1570162x12666140530112421.
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