Risky Sexual Behavior among People Living with HIV in Brazzaville: Prevalence and Associated Factors

Abstract

Introduction: Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) infection is still a global health challenge, better still a societal problem. Antiretroviral therapies have improved the quality of life of people living with HIV, making them potential subjects of transmission in the event of risky behavior. Objectives: To describe the socio-demographic characteristics of the study population, to determine the prevalence of risky sexual behavior, to identify the factors associated with risky sexual behavior in Brazzaville. Methods: A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was carried out between March and September 2022 in the care centers for PLHIV in Brazzaville. PLHIV receiving ART for at least six months who agreed to participate in the study were included. The socio-demographic characteristics, those relating to the disease, behaviour, psychosocial and those related to the desire for procreation were the variables studied. The statistical test used was Pearson's or FISHER's Chi2 and the odds ratio with adjustment. The significance level was set at 0.05. Results: On these criteria, 1002 people living with HIV/ART were interviewed. They had an average age of 38.89 ± 9.45 years, a secondary education level n=688 (64.74%), an average socioeconomic level n=774 (77.24%). The prevalence of risky sexual behavior is 78.04%. Female sex (OR 2.67, 95% CI 1.02-2.97), lack of pre-test counseling (OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.17- 5.52), lack of knowledge modes of transmission (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.21-3.34), occasional partners (OR 1.89, 95% CI 0.84-2.12), alcohol consumption before sexual relations (OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.09-2.87), non-disclosure of serological status (OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.07-2.22) and ignorance of the serological status of the Partner(s) (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.40-4.22) were associated with risky sexual behavior. Conclusion: The high prevalence of risky sexual behaviors and the importance of the associated factors identified require that positive prevention programs be strengthened while emphasizing enhanced communication for the development of a global approach to care for PLHIV by integrating sexual health.