HIV seroprevalence, associated risk behavior, and alcohol use among male Rwanda Defense Forces military personnel
Harbertson, J.; Grillo, M.; Zimulinda, E.; Murego, C.; Brodine, S.; May, S.; Sebagabo, M.; Araneta, M.Rosario.G.; Cronan, T.; Shaffer, R.
Aids and Behavior 17(5): 1734-1745
2013
ISSN/ISBN: 1090-7165 PMID: 23080360 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-012-0343-6Document Number: 574809
A cross-sectional study was conducted among active-duty male soldiers, aged ≥21 years, in the Rwanda Defense Forces (RDF) and included an anonymous behavioral survey and HIV rapid testing to determine risk factors associated with HIV seroprevalence. Overall prevalence was 2.6 % (95 % CI: 1.84-3.66); personnel who were divorced, separated or widowed, served ≥6 years, never deployed, uncircumcised, reported STI symptoms, had ≥6 lifetime sex partners, or screened positive for harmful alcohol use (via Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test) had higher HIV prevalence. Ever being divorced, separated or widowed (OR = 29.8; 95 % CI: 5.5-159.9), and STI symptoms (OR = 3.4; 95 % CI: 1.5-7.6) were significantly associated with infection, after multivariable adjustment, while circumcision was protective (OR = 0.4; 95 % CI: 0.2-0.9). Despite mobility and other factors that uniquely influence HIV transmission in militaries, RDF prevalence was similar to the general population. A reason for this finding may be conservative sexual behavior combined with effective leadership-supported prevention programs. Data suggest a concentrated rather than generalized epidemic, with targets identified for intervention.
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