Effect of women's education and income levels on HIV prevalence among women accessing HIV care and treatment

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of women's education and income levels on HIV prevalence among women accessing care and treatment. The prevalence of HIV among Kenyan women is 6.6 per cent, more than twice as high as the prevalence among men (3.1%). Women in Murang'a County, Kenya, had a threefold higher risk of contracting HIV than men (2.4% vs. 7.8%). It is still unclear what specifically accounts for the high incidence rate among adult women, particularly in Murang'a County. A cross-sectional survey was used to determine social determinants of HIV prevalence among women in Murang’a County, Kenya. Respondents to the study were women getting HIV therapy at Murang'a County Level 5 Hospital in Kenya. The study selected 167 participants using a strict random selection methodology. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences was used to conduct descriptive and inferential statistical analyses on numerical data. The findings indicated by odds ratio showed that education level increases, HIV prevalence and that access to formal employment decreases HIV prevalence among women in Murang’a County. The study results are of help to the County government of Murang'a, where HIV is particularly prevalent. The results will also help to accelerate the realisation of Vision 2030 goals by illuminating the social determinants that contribute to HIV prevalence among women in Murang’a County. The study recommends programmes be launched that enhance women's education and training.