Assessment of the utilization of pre-marital HIV testing services and determinants of VCT in Addis Ababa, 2003

Abstract

Abstract
Background: Pre-marital HIV testing contributes to the prevention of HIV infection by diminishing heterosexual
transmission between partners and indirectly also protects any potential child from contracting the virus.
Objectives: To assess the utilization and determinants of pre-marital HIV testing in civil marriages taking place at the
Addis Ababa City Hall Marriage Licensing Center.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was made on men and women at their civil marriage ceremonies. Interviews were
conducted on a one - to - one basis, and a separate analysis was performed for each sex.
Results: Out of the 640 individuals (320 males and 320 females) who underwent civil marriage, 55% reported having
had pre-marital HIV testing. The main reason given for not having HIV testing was that the interviewees did not feel
at risk of acquiring HIV/AIDS. Individuals of both sexes who had frank discussion as a couple about HIV were found
to be more likely to have pre-marital HIV testing (adjusted ORs 10.96, 95% CI 3.7 to 33.3 for men and 7.78, 95% CI
2.86 to 20.0 for women). The VCT schemes preferred by most respondents included; integrated VCT centers,
confidential testing, appointing medical doctors as counselors, and face-to face disclosure of VCT results.
Conclusion: Based on these findings, the promotion of discussion between couples about HIV and VCT through
intense IEC activities as well as involving marriage agencies to encourage such discussion is recommended.
[Ethiop.J.Health Dev.2006;20(1):18-23]