Demographic Factors Influencing the Prevalence of H.I.V/AIDS in Mbeya Region of Tanzania.

Abstract

Background & Aim: The study was conducted in the aim to figure out the demographic factors that fueling prevalence of H.I.V/AIDS in 2011/12-Mbeya region. The demographic data of the cross-sectional years 2011/12 was used. The study encompassed male and female individuals aged 15-49. Methods & Materials: The binary logistic regression model was used employed and demographic factors that were considered to have an impact on the prevalence of the epidemic were included in our analysis. Results: The result shows that demographic variables had significant effect on the prevalence of H.I.V/AIDS in the year 2011/12- Mbeya region for all respondents. However, except for male circumcision for male individuals, polygamous, travelers and pregnancy status for female individuals, the demographic parameters such as respondent age, respondent sex, paid sex (commercial sex) and unsafe sex had significant effect on the prevalence of H.I.V/AIDS in the year 2011/12 in Mbeya region and female were the most affected individuals compared to male individuals. H.I.V infection was highly prevalent in urban areas than rural areas. As compared to other previous studies, a shift of the epidemic from rural areas to urban areas, and from young age (15-24) to middle age group (30-39). Conclusion: To prevent further prevalent of H.I.V/AIDS a substantial number of those infected present with AIDS related symptoms and may be in need of ART. As a comprehensive response, prevention efforts should be intensified to target and addresses identified transmission parameters and include individuals of all ages. In urban areas, commercial sex workers should be targeted to capture those at risk of H.I.V infection. Concurrent attempts to expand access to treatments and care for those infected in urban and rural areas are needed as this will increase opportunity for prevention. Safe sex should be insisted by providing people with protective measures and then insisting them to use it regularly