Risk perception of HIV infection and behavioural response among youth people in Koibatek District

Abstract

Despite widespread knowledge of the HIV and AIDS and of preventive measures, risky sexual practices are rampant among young people. This study explores the risk perception of HIV and AIDS and behavioural response among young people.

The study sought to find out whether or not young people perceived themselves to be at risk of HIV infection and to examine the various preventive measures taken to avoid getting infected. Risk perception has been theorized to be an important antecedent for adopting protective behaviour. It is a key construct of research applying the Health Belief Model.in relation to HIV. Risk perception is an indicator of perceived susceptibility to infection, a measure of one's understanding of AIDS transmission as well as willingness to consider behavioural changes.

Both quantitative and qualitative were obtained from 108 participants aged 15-24 years in Eldama-Ravine and Koisamo locations of Koibatek district which was purposively chosen. A standard questionnaire was administered to the respondents. The findings reveal inadequate knowledge about general sexual behaviour and reproductive health issues especially regarding STIs.With reference to sexual behaviour, though majority of the respondents were sexually active, 70.2% had not taken an HIV test and 77.3% did not know the HIV status of their currentpartnertsj.The study also found out that despite the 99% awareness level among young people, such awareness has not been translated into proactive behaviour change.

The study thus recommends that 'in absence of cure, behaviour change remains the only way to keep HIV and AIDS at bay'. Intensive, expanded and comprehensive Information, Education and Communication(lEC) and Behaviour Change Communication(BBC) strategies for the young people to 'develop positive behaviour, promote and sustain individual, community and social behaviour change and maintain appropriate behaviours,' should be implemented and that programmes intended to mitigate HIV and AIDS should henceforth shift from awareness to address behavioural change with a special focus being given to the sexually active young people.