To investigate the risk perception of rural adult population in Chikhwawa District, TA Maseya, on wife inheritance as a driver to HIV transmission

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to investigate the cultural practice of wife inheritance as a driver of HIVtransmission among the adult population in Chikhwawa District, TA Maseya inMalawi. Wife inheritance entails that the wife of a deceased husband marry a relative of the deceased husband.OBJECTIVES: The objectives of the study were to assess the knowledge levels about and risk perception of wife inheritance as a driver of HIV transmission.METHODS: The study adopted a qualitative approach. In-depth interviews using interview guides were employed as a method of data collection.RESULTS: In total, 37% of the respondents indicated that they had been involved in the practice of wife inheritance. It was found that wife inheritance could be a driver of HIV transmission. Many respondents reported not using a condom in their last sexual encounter; as well as not caring whether or not they used a condom the last time they had sex.CONCLUSION: Many respondents knew they were HIV-positive, but had not informed their spouses of their status because of fear that their partners would end the relationship. Many respondents knew that the practice of wife inheritance increased their risk of contracting HIV.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University