Assessment of Student Risk Perception of HIV/AIDS and Preventive Practices in Aksum University, Northern Ethiopia 2013; A Cross Sectional Study

Although the epidemic is currently declining, HIV/AIDS remains a major developmental obstacle worldwide. Behavioral changes interventions particularly on the adolescent and young population is needed to prevent the disease. The aim of this study was to assess students' risk perception of HIV/AIDS and preventive practices in Aksum University. Cross sectional, institutional based survey was conducted between June to October 2013 using mixed method. The quantitative study was conducted on 845 students using multistage sampling. The data were collected using self administered questionnaire and SPSS was used for analysis. The qualitative part included two focus group discussions which were analyzed using thematic areas. Two hundred thirty three (33%) of respondents were sexually active, of which 167 (64%) sexual debut was 15 to 19 years of age (mean age 17.2). Among all respondents 99 (41%) had Multiple sexual partners, 49 (21%) male respondents practiced sex with Commercial sex workers and 48 percent used condom consistently. Among 796 participants, only 150 (19%) had positive perception (fear to acquiring HIV infection) and 692(87%) mentioned at least one of HIV preventive practices of which, (48%) abstinence, (23%) faithfulness and always condom use (15%). Moreover, Sixty seven percent were tested and eighty percent had willingness to voluntary counseling and testing. From Multivariate analysis, Chat chewing, ever had sex, and Misconception variables such as AIDS is curable (OR 1.9, AOR 2.3(1.2-4.5) and Premarital sex is indicated for a boy (OR, 2.9 AOR 2.3(1.4-3.7) showed strong association to risk perception of HIV/AIDS. The qualitative data was also in line with these findings. Risk perception for HIV/AIDS was low. Moreover, risky sexual behaviors and misconceptions on HIV/AIDS were observed.