Mandatory pre-marital HIV testing in Nigeria: The public health and social implications

Abstract

The prevalence of HIV infection among individuals referred from faith-based organizations (FBOs) in south-eastern Nigeria for mandatory pre-marital HIV screening was determined. Of the total of 319 individuals (148 males, 171 females) screened, 25 (7.8%, 95%CI: 4.9–10.7%) were confirmed HIV-positive, comprising 13 (8.8%, 95%CI: 4.2–13.4%) males and 12 (7%, 95%CI: 3.2–10.8%) females. No significant difference was observed in the association between HIV infection and gender (χ2=0.58, df = 1, P < 0.05). The highest prevalence of HIV infection (8.9%) was recorded among individuals in the 21–30 years age category, while the least HIV infection prevalence (5.3%) was observed among persons above 40 years old. There was no significant difference in the association between HIV infection and age (χ2=0.68, df = 3, P < 0.05). Mandatory pre-marital HIV screening could generate social stigmatization and infringement of the fundamental human rights of infected individuals. Voluntary counselling and confidential HIV testing and especially pre- and post-test counselling as the basis of pre-marital HIV testing are more desirable. Guidelines for the management of test-positive individuals and non-concordant couples and the safeguarding of confidentiality should be developed. Training and capacity building for religious leaders, to appropriately manage social issues associated with HIV/AIDS as it affects their organizations, are recommended.