Prevalence and Predictors of Non-Uptake of HIV Voluntary Counseling and Testing among Undergraduates of Tertiary Institution in Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: One of the key strategies in the HIV/AIDS prevention and control programs in Nigeria is Voluntary HIV counseling and testing (VCT). However, its utilization among young adults, particularly undergraduates, is very low. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence and predictors of non-uptake of VCT among undergraduates. Methods: A cross sectional study using quantitative methods was conducted. Using simple random sampling, three faculties were selected out of nine and 422 respondents were selected from three faculties. Interviews were conducted using pre-tested semi-structured questionnaires. Data analysis was done using statistical package for social sciences version 20. Prevalence was measured by the percentage of respondents that had never used VCT. Analytical statistics were done using chi-square test to measure strength of association between VCT uptake and knowledge and attitude of respondents. Association with P-value 0.05 was considered significant. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of non-uptake of VCT. The associations were presented as odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals. Results: Overall, 59.3% of respondents were knowledgeable about VCT while majority, 64.7% had negative attitude towards it. Knowledge (X2 = 9.89, P-value 2 = 10.78, P-value OR 1.874 (1.058 - 3.289), P Conclusions: VCT uptake among undergraduates was low and determined by VCT-related ignorance, poor attitude, fear of positive result and HIV/AIDS-related stigma/discrimination. In order to change the narrative, HIV/AIDS prevention and control programs in Nigeria should address the identified predictors of non-VCT uptake. There is a need to focus on young adults when designing, expanding and implementing VCT services in the country.