Abstract:
Sexually Transmitted Infections including HIV/AIDS are among the major sexual and reproductive health problems facing Tanzania. This study was carried in Chamwino District in Central Tanzania to determine prevalence of high risk sexual behaviour and identify the correlates of high -risk sexual behaviour among youth. Data were collected from a random sample of 600 youth aged between 15 – 24 years using a structured questionnaire with closed-ended and open-ended questions. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 18. The results indicate that 31.8% were engaged in high risk sexual behaviour (e.g. having more than two partners in the past 12 months and not using condom). Chances for engaging in high risk sexual behaviour by youth increased with lack of comprehensive knowledge on HIV/AIDS (OR = 1.94; 95% CI = 1.23 – 3.09), but decreased with having secondary education and above (OR = 0.77; 95% CI = 0.70 – 0.84). The Likelihood also increased with having close friends that are sexually active (OR = 1.72; 95% CI = 1.32 – 2.26), if used alcohol (OR = 2.82; 95% CI = 1.53 – 5.27), and if engaged in transactional sex (OR = 4.68; 95% CI = 3.30 – 6.65). Overall, findings show that a substantial proportion of youth in the study population are engaged in high risk sexual behaviour. It is recommended that more education on HIV/AIDS among youth should be emphasized in the study area.
