Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Voluntary Counseling and Testing for HIV among University Students, Tigray, Northern Ethiopia.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) for HIV in Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia with a view of suggesting measures for increased up takes in University students. Institution based cross-sectional study design was used. Respondents were selected by simple random sampling method. A total of 425 students were included. The data was collected from April 1-10, 2008 by trained health workers using a self administered structured questionnaire which was adopted from Behavioral survey surveillance (BSS). A total of 413 students participated (with the response rate of 97%). In which 145 (35.1%) accounted for females. Their age ranged from 18-30, with the median age of 20. Majority 145(35.1%) of the respondents preferred the VCT service to be given in youth clubs followed by Government Institutions 105(25.4%).The female respondents were found to have a significant association to accept VCT for HIV with the OR=1.95(1.27,2.99). In this study females were more knowledgeable and willing to VCT for HIV than that of the males. Still cost of VCT matters, in which the respondents prefer to be tested at youth clubs and Government hospitals. Therefore, both sexes should have to be empowered to accept VCT for HIV through peer initiated VCT services at all levels of care including in Universities.

Key words: VCT, Knowledge, Behavior, Practice