Knowledge of sexually transmitted diseases, HIV infection and AIDS among sexually active adolescents in Nairobi, Kenya and its relationship to their sexual behaviour and contraception
Lema, V.M.; Hassan, M.A.
East African Medical Journal 71(2): 122-128
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 0012-835X PMID: 7925041 Document Number: 530265
The authors interviewed 675 male and female adolescents aged 14-19 years of mean age 18.2 attending the adolescent antenatal clinic of Kenyatta National Hospital and the Special STD and Skin Disease Clinic in Nairobi between April 1, 1991 and July 31, 1991. The interviews were conducted to determine participants level of awareness on sexually transmitted diseases (STD), HIV infection, AIDS, and contraception relating to their sexual and contraception behaviors. The adolescents comprised 27.6% of clinic attendees; 52.9% were male, 56.5% of males and 77.8% of females were not formally employed and some were students. Respondents mentioned being aware of only three STDs in the following proportions: 70.4% gonorrhea, 56.5% syphilis, and 54.3% AIDS. 76.6% cited print and electronic media as their main sources of information on such subjects. Although the youngest reported age at first coitus was 8 years, the mean age for first intercourse among males and females were, respectively, 15.1 and 16.0 years. 22.6% and 8.3% respectively, of males and females had experienced sexual intercourse by age 14. 93.3% had been sexually active during the preceding 12 months, with 42.4% of these youths reporting having had sex with two or more partners during the period. 37.3% had had sexual intercourse with strangers, bar attendants, and prostitutes, although males were more likely to be involved with such individuals. 75.9% had not used any form of contraception. Communication and education on the risks of unprotected sexual activity are urgently needed in this sexually active population of youths which thus far remains largely ignorant about StDs and contraception.