Socio-demographic profile and prevalence of HIV infection among VCT clients in Addis Ababa

Abstract

Background: Voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) is an important component of the HIV/AIDS prevention and control interventions. The services are available in government and non-government HIV health facilities. Objectives: To describe the sociodemographic profile of VCT clients and to estimate the prevalence of HIV infection. Methods: The data for this study were taken from VCT clients' records in the Kassanchis health centre in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. These clients visited the centre for VCT services between November 2001 and February 2004. Data were analysed using EPI-Info and SPSS. Result: Overall, 54.1% (n=3567/6599) of the clients were female, and the clients' average age was 27.4 years (SD+or-8.6). Seven in every 10 of the clients were never married, and nearly half of the clients (48.8%) had secondary school education. Majority (66.4%) of the clients were unemployed. The overwhelming majority of clients (88.2%) had had sexual practices in the past. Condom use among sexually active clients was low. Prevalence of HIV infection among VCT clients was 24.5%, and varied by sociodemographic characteristics of the clients. Most of the variables included in the regression model had significant effects, however, sex, employment status and a history of STIs had considerable and statistically significant influence on HIV infection than any other single factor. Conclusion: Considering the high prevalence of HIV infection among VCT clients, appropriate Behavior Change Communication (BCC) strategies need to be designed, with particular focus on people with low socioeconomic status. In addition, strong referral linkages need to be established for the provision of care and support services.