Abstract:
Although a number of HIV prevention programs have been implemented,
such as mass media campaigns, high rates of unprotected and concurrent sexual
partnerships, as well as low uptake HIV testing and limited HIV knowledge, persist
in Tanzania. We examined the effect and predicting factors of HIV prevention
communication among people living with HIV (PLH) exposed to NAMWEZA intervention, and their at-risk social network members (NMs) Quantitative data were
collected from 326 participants at baseline and 24 months of follow-up. In-depth
interviews with 20 PLH were conducted at follow-up. Results indicated specific
communication about condom use and HIV testing increased; (mean increase of
0.28 (SD = 0.14) scores, P = 0.012 and 0.42 (SD = 0.11) scores, p < 0.001 respectively
while general discussion about protecting other people from HIV did not change
significantly; mean increase was 0.01 scores (SD = 0.005), p = 0.890. Positive
predictors of communication included being single; OR = 1.10, p = 0.01, female;
OR = 1.15, p = 0.03, aged 30 years or older; OR = 1.23, p < 0.01, HIV knowledge, dose.
