Sexual risk behaviour among people on antiretroviral therapy in Kisarawe district: assessment of magnitude and associated factors

Abstract

HIV transmission continues at high rates among ART patients and to uninfected persons. There is limited clear research evidence on the prevalence of high risk sexual behavior and associated factors in Tanzania. It is this gap in knowledge that this study intended to fill. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and factors associated with risky sexual behavior among people living with HIV on ART in Kisarawe District. Methodology: This study employed a cross sectional design. The study was conducted in Kisarawe District, among a random sample of People living with HIV on ART. Descriptive statistics were employed in analyzing the data collected. Chi square was to assess relationship between variables. The Logistic regression was use to assess the factors that were associated with dependent variables. Results: A total of 400 HIV positive patients on ART participated in the study, 47% of the patients were male and 53% of female, with the mean age of 37.2 (SD 8.3) years. Among 323 respondents who were sexually active, 162 (50.2%) engaged in high sexual behavior(did not use condom consistently in the past 6 months preceding the study). Out of these inconsistent condom users, 94 (58.1%) were females. Conclusion: High prevalence of high risk sexual behavior among HIV patients on ART is a matter of public health concern. This has implications for re-examining HIV prevention strategies.