Abstract:

HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) has been shown to have preventive effects on HIV/AIDS. Despite its importance, participation remains low in some places where the service is obtainable. This study was carried out to determine the utilization of HTC services among young persons in Yemetu, Ibadan and South West Nigeria.

METHODS

The study was a cross sectional survey of 221 residents aged 15 to 24 years. Semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaires were used to obtain information on socio-demographic characteristics and utilization of HCT services. Descriptive statistics were done. Associations were explored with the chi square test and predictors of knowing ones status was determined using logistic regression analysis at 5% level of significance.

RESULTS

The mean age of the respondents was 17.8+3.9 years, about half, 54.3% were female, 45.7% were male (m: f = 1: 1.2), 83.3% were single, only 6.8% had tertiary education. Only 24% know their HIV status, 33.6% of respondents > 18 years know their status compared to 15.8% of those who were ≥ 18 years (p=0.002). Among the respondents who were aware of a place to carry out HIV test, only 49.4% know their HIV status compared to 10.6% who do not (p<0.001). Those that were aware of a place to get tested were about 8 times likely to know their status [OR=8.18 (3.66-18.30)] P<0.001.

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

The common belief that services will be utilized when they are available was not evident in this study. Sustainable HIV responses targeting young people should not be limited by assumed availability of services. Periodic awareness programmes should be undertaken in the community. 

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