Abstract:

Eswatini has an HIV prevalence rate of 24.9% even with so many strategies that have been introduced to reduce HIV incidence. Measures that have been put in place include pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), even with the introduction of PrEP its uptake has been poor with only 11% of the eligible population taking it. This study is aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice towards pre-exposure prophylaxis as an HIV preventive measure among high school adolescents in Eswatini. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 11 high school adolescents in one of the high schools in the Hhohho region. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data. Data that was analyzed using SPPS version 31, Pearson correlation, Chi-square and regression analysis was done. Data did not support an association between knowledge on HIV and PrEP use (F- 0.016, P- 0.770). The odds of using PrEP were 0.36 (64%) less among those with poor knowledge about PrEP (AOR – 0.36, 95%, CI = -0.318- (-) 0.03, p = 0.23) adjusting for PrEP. The results indicated there is no significant association between attitude towards PrEP and PrEP use (X²(4) = 7.639, p = 0.106). There was no association between risky behavior and PrEP use (r = 0,222 p = 0.511). There is need for Eswatini to strengthen and evaluate its strategies that are in place to improve PrEP uptake and also develop programs and strategies that will cater for the needs and concerns of adolescents that will assist them to make informed decisions.

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