Risky sexual behaviour of students in secondary schools in Oshikuku, Namibia: A cross sectional survey of knowledge, attitudes and practice

[摘要] ENGLISH SUMMARY : Introduction: Risky sexual behaviour amongst teenage youth is a significant factor in HIV transmission, other sexually transmitted infections and teenage pregnancy. Little is known about the sexual behaviour of youth in northern Namibia. This study aimed to survey youth in Oshikuku in order to evaluate their knowledge, attitudes and sexual practices.Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted with grade 11 and 12 students in secondary schools. A total of 309 students participated and completed a self–administered questionnaire.Results: 104 (33.7%) were currently sexually active, while 169 (54.6%) had ever had sex. Although all sexually active respondents had used a condom at some time only 25/104 (24.0%) had used one with their current partner. The mean age of sexual debut was 10 years in those sexually active. Only 139 (45.2%) had accessed family planning and only 15 (4.8%) had accessed the clinic for a sexually transmitted infection, despite high rates of genital ulceration (15.2%) and penile discharge (24.5%). Respondents generally had good knowledge of risky sexual behaviour, although only 121 (40.4%) were aware of the benefits of male circumcision. Other issues included beliefs that girls could not refuse sex with their boyfriend (85.2%) and mean 'yes when they said 'no (19.8%), coupled with high rates of sexual coercion (10.9%)Conclusion: HIV youth prevention programmes in northern Namibia should take cognisance of the issues uncovered in this survey and ensure they are addressed. Primary care services should consider how access to adolescent friendly services for family planning and sexually transmitted infections can be improved.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University