Influence of Family Relationships and Communications on Sexuality on the Prevention of Human Immunodeficiency Virus among Youths in Bajabure Ward, Girei Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria
Modesta Ifeoma Mbah, Chibuike Nnadozie EnwereuzorAbstract
Background:
Globally, HIV is still a public health problem, infecting new people and causing morbidity and mortality.
Aim and Objectives:
This study aimed to determine the influence of the family on the prevention of HIV/AIDS among youth in Bajabure ward, Yola Adamawa State, Nigeria. Specifically, it studied the influence of family relationships and communications on sexuality on the prevention of HIV among the youths in Bajabure Ward.
Materials and Methods:
This is a cross-sectional study involving youths aged 15 to 29 years in Bajabure Ward. Upon obtaining ethical clearance,the youths in the area were summoned by the youth leaders and graded based on the age range used in this study. Participants were selected among those who gave informed consent. The self structured, validated and reliability assessed questionnaire was administered to 300 youths selected by stratified random sampling. The filled questionnaires were verified for completeness on the spot. The completed questionnaires were stored in a secure location to maintain confidentiality. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data.
Results:
Various methods were used to prevent the transmission of HIV and they include: Abstinence (59.6%), use of condom (72%), monogamous relationship (93%), Pre-exposure prophylaxis (33%). However, family relationships had positive influence on the youths as follows: Very Supportive (90%), somewhat supportive (89%), very unsupportive (50%) while somewhat unsupportive (4%), very unsupportive (20%), somewhat supportive (2%) had negative influence. On the other hand,the communication on sexuality had positive influence as follows: Regular (86%), occasional (71%), rarely (76%) and never (50%).
Conclusion:
Strengthening family relationships and regular communications about sexuality in the family will enhance the transmission of knowledge on HIV prevention and healthy disciplined behaviour. Subsequently leading to the prevention of HIV transmission.