Risk factors associated with couple HIV status. The case of clients at AIDS Information Centre-Mengo Kisenyi, Kampala

Abstract

The study was guided by two objectives: namely, to examine the socio-economic factors associated with Couple HIV status among HCT clients and to establish the socio-demographic and behavioral factors associated with Couple HIV among HCT clients at AIC. The main source of data in this study was from AIC. Secondary data analysis was done on a cross-sectional study carried out by AIC from Jan 2007-Dec 2008. The study population was couples aged 15-49 years. (n=11,886). The dependent variable was couple HIV status, which had three categories; concordant HIV negative, concordant HIV positive and HIV discordant. The independent variables included; marital status, education level, place of residence, age, condom use and knowledge of partner’s HIV status. The data was analyzed at three different levels; univariate, bivariate using the Pearson’s chi square statistic and multivariate using the multinomial logistic regression model. The study found out that men who were married (RRR=13.53; p<0.001), and married women (RRR=10.94; p<0.001) had increased risk of being concordant HIV positive. On the other had married men (RRR=2.2; p<0.001) and married women (RRR=2.0; p<0.001) had significant increased risk of being HIV discordant. Women who completed secondary education (RRR=0.44; p<0.001) had significant reduced risk of being HIV discordant. Women aged 20-49 years had significant increased risk of being HIV discordant. Women who knew their partner’s HIV status (RRR=0.47; p=0.049) had a reduced risk of being HIV discordant compared to women who did not know their partners’ HIV status. The study recommends that HCT Counselors should design improved counseling protocols that clearly explain discordance and help clients adopt protective behaviors and risk reduction strategies such as initiation of condom use, or a commitment to correct and consistent use of condom. HCT counselors should encourage clients to test for HIV with their partners early in the relationship and disclosing their status to each other.