Media Exposure and HIV Testing Among Youth in Sub-Saharan Africa: Evidence From Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS)

Abstract

Research is vague regarding the influence of media exposure on HIV testing among youth in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Using three rounds of Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) from three selected countries in SSA (Kenya, Nigeria, and Zambia), this article investigates the relationship between mass media exposure and HIV testing among youth in SSA. Logistic regression was used to examine these associations. SSA has witnessed some growth in the percentage of youth who are tested and an increasing trend was evident. There was a significant relationship between exposure to mass media and HIV testing during the mid-2000 among youth in Kenya and Nigeria, but not in Zambia. The findings highlight an increase in the number of youth testing for HIV who were exposed to mass media messages. We suggest that continuous and proactive media movements may lead to diffusion of ideas among youth that may ultimately promote HIV testing.