Abstract
The objective of this study was to assess university students’ knowledge gender differences regarding HIV/AIDS at an Adventist institution in Arusha, Tanzania. This was undertaken on the ground that knowing about HIV/AIDS is one of the main ways by which the formidable disease can be controlled. The sample comprised 97 male (49) and female (48) participants who were administered an HIV/AIDS questionnaire consisting of 15 questions/statements. The data analysis comprised frequency, percentage, chi-square and level of probability. The results showed that on the basis of knowledgeability participants fell under those who scored high followed by those who were above average, average and below average. Similarly on the basis of gender differences, there were two categories, namely in a couple of questions, female participants performed better than their counterparts. In the second category, there was parity of genders, as their performance was equally good or unsatisfactory. In view of HIV/AIDS misconceptions and gender differences observed, it was concluded that the HIV/AIDS knowledge students commanded was not sufficient to lead to reduction in HIV/AIDS transmission. Thus calling for more public HIV/AIDS education in institutions of higher learning in Tanzania. DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n27p726
Highlights
The number of women affected and infected by HIV/AIDS constitutes the majority worldwide (Paul, Majundarm AkhtarDanash, Bobin and Sherifali, 2013)
According to Gahagan (2012) her investigation in Canada indicates that there is an increase in the number of women contracting HIV/AIDS which constitutes the reason for further investigation into gender inequality in the contraction of HIV/AIDS. She goes on point out many societies place the gender role of women in a position which makes it rather difficult for women to protect themselves against HIV/AIDS transmission
In keeping with the objective of the investigation, it is clear that the participants were familiar with the HIV/AIDS knowledge considered essential for guarding against contracting HIV/AIDS
Summary
The number of women affected and infected by HIV/AIDS constitutes the majority worldwide (Paul, Majundarm AkhtarDanash, Bobin and Sherifali, 2013). Burgoya and Drumond (2008) report that comparatively, women in Africa are more affected with HIV/AIDS than is the case with their counterpart the men The reasons for such gender difference are many and are as follows: poorly educated, those with rural background, those who are economically dependent on men; taboo imposed on them by their culture regarding discussion based on sexual matters and health, submissive aspect in relationship with men; men dominant role in sexual decision making. According to Gahagan (2012) her investigation in Canada indicates that there is an increase in the number of women contracting HIV/AIDS which constitutes the reason for further investigation into gender inequality in the contraction of HIV/AIDS She goes on point out many societies place the gender role of women in a position which makes it rather difficult for women to protect themselves against HIV/AIDS transmission. In the long run these hold the women’s limitations in their negotiation for safe sex and access to prevention to available prevention services
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