Uptake of Voluntary Counseling and Testing at Ngungu Mini - hospital, Zambia

• Main Author: Phyllis Changu Bune Kanyemba
• Format: Others
• Language: English
• Published: 2010
• Subjects: HIV; AIDS; Prevention; Care; Support; Barriers; Testing; Voluntary.
• Online Access: http://etd.uwc.ac.za/index.php?module=etd&action=viewtitle&id=gen8Srv25Nme4_2251_1299558390

<p>In countries like Zambia where HIV prevalence (14.3% in the age group 15-49 years) is one of the highest in sub-Saharan Africa, HIV testing is an important strategy to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic, because it is a critical step towards HIV/AIDS care, treatment and support. Despite decades of HIV/AIDS information and education campaigns, only 10% of Zambians know their HIV status. This study aimed to describe the uptake of voluntary counseling and testing and factors associated with uptake at Ngungu Mini - hospital in Ngungu Township, Zambia. Methodology: A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted among 100 adult clients accessing health care at Ngungu mini - hospital during the second week of January 2009. Participants were asked to fill in a questionnaire on VCT, knowledge, attitudes towards HIV testing, and factors that promote/hinder HIV testing. Data was captured with Excel and basic descriptive analysis done using SPSS version 16.0 and Epi Info Version 3.3.1.</p>