Disclosure, knowledge of partner status, and condom use among HIV-positive patients attending clinical care in Tanzania, Kenya, and Namibia
Bachanas, P.; Medley, A.; Pals, S.; Kidder, D.; Antelman, G.; Benech, I.; DeLuca, N.; Nuwagaba-Biribonwoha, H.; Muhenje, O.; Cherutich, P.; Kariuki, P.; Katuta, F.; Bukuku, M.
Aids Patient Care and Stds 27(7): 425-435
2013
ISSN/ISBN: 1557-7449 PMID: 23829332 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2012.0388Document Number: 574094
We describe the frequency of and factors associated with disclosure, knowledge of partner's HIV status, and consistent condom use among 3538 HIV-positive patients attending eighteen HIV care and treatment clinics in Kenya, Namibia, and Tanzania. Overall, 42% of patients were male, and 64% were on antiretroviral treatment. The majority (80%) had disclosed their HIV status to their partners, 64% knew their partner's HIV status, and 77% reported consistent condom use. Of those who knew their partner's status, 18% reported their partner was HIV negative. Compared to men, women were significantly less likely to report disclosing their HIV status to their sex partner(s), to knowing their partner's HIV status, and to using condoms consistently with HIV-negative partners. Other factors negatively associated with consistent condom use include nondisclosure, alcohol use, reporting a casual sex partner, and desiring a pregnancy. Health care providers should target additional risk reduction counseling and support services to patients who report these characteristics.