Kampala, Uganda: Researchers at Stellenbosch University and the University of Western Cape, have identified drivers of High Hiv Infections among college students in South Africa.
The chilling factors behind High Hiv Infections and unplanned pregnancies among South African students are endangering progress against the pandemic in the rainbow nation.
Some of the factors identified are Alcohol and drug abuse, disregard of contraceptives because of their perceived side effects, and having multiple sexual partners ‘just for fun.’
The study is titled: A Qualitative Exploration of Factors Influencing Non-Use of Sexual Reproductive Health Services among University Students in South Africa which has been published in the prestigious International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
The three researchers; Ntombenhle E. Mazibuko, Munyaradzi Saruchera, and Emeka Francis Okonji, conducted the study at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT).
They used qualitative methods to explore the factors contributing to the high incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancies among students, despite the availability of condoms, contraceptives, and health education programs.
By the time of the study whose results were published early this year, concerns had been growing about the prevalence of risky sexual behavior, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unplanned pregnancies among young people, particularly in universities.
The Study:
To address this issue, the researchers undertook a qualitative study at MUT to explore the factors contributing to the non-use of sexual reproductive health services by students.
The study employed qualitative methods, conducting 20 in-depth interviews with MUT students and analyzing the data using thematic analysis.
The findings of the study shed light on the complex factors driving the high rates of STIs and unplanned pregnancies among the student population.
The study followed the guidelines set forth in the 1964 Declaration of Helsinki.
These guidelines emphasize the importance of protecting the well-being and rights of human research participants.
The research was conducted with the necessary approvals from the MUT Research Council, the MUT Campus Health Clinic Head of Department (HOD), and Stellenbosch University.
It was also approved by the National Health Research Ethics Committee (NHREC) with the registration number REC-050411-032.
The Findings:
The findings of the study revealed several important themes that emerged from the interviews conducted with the participants.
These included the presence of multiple intimate partners, the perceived quality of condom use, and the benefits of contraceptive use.
The findings further show the effectiveness of health education provided by the MUT Clinic staff, the development of autonomy among young individuals, lack of knowledge and misinformation about contraceptives, and the influence of alcohol and drug abuse, as additional drivers.
“One notable finding was the prevalence of multiple partnerships and the inconsistent use of condoms among the participants,” the researchers write.
“This aligns with previous studies conducted in South Africa, which have consistently identified multiple sexual partners as a significant risk factor for HIV transmission,” the researchers further write in their peer-reviewed journal paper.
Accordingly, male participants reported having more than one sexual partner compared to females, indicating a gender disparity in risky sexual behavior.
ResearchFinds News which has accessed the paper has established from it that peer pressure was identified as a driving force behind these behaviors, consistent with findings from similar studies among university students.
The quotations from the participants are chilly, lending efforts to fight the disease a tall order.
“Yes, I do, I have two partners,” a Female participant reveals on having multiple intimate partners.
In another quote, a participant delights in the thin skin-like condom type:
“I prefer the ones that I buy… Durex is nicer, it feels like almost not there.”
Another participant on not using condoms during a specific situation goes:
“The only time I did not use condoms was when I was breaking her virginity.”
A female participant expressing concerns about contraceptive side effects told the researchers:
“You gain weight; people get pregnant while using contraceptives like Implant…”
According to the researchers, many participants admitted to having multiple sexual partners, either for fun or to understand the opposite sex better.
“Both male and female students engaged in these behaviors, although males reported higher levels of sexual activity,” they reveal.
Their study further observes that inconsistent condom use and reliance on trust in main partners were observed.
“This indicates a lack of understanding about the risks associated with unprotected sex,” observed the researchers.
They further reveal that the perceived quality of condoms distributed at MUT was also a significant concern among the participants.
“Many preferred condoms that they purchased themselves, citing issues such as breakage and discomfort with the freely supplied condoms.
This lack of trust in provided condoms has implications for the effectiveness of government-sponsored condom distribution programs,” they observe.
The study also revealed the participants’ varying attitudes towards contraceptive use.
While some demonstrated a good understanding of contraceptive options, others had misinformation or lack of knowledge.
Concerns about side effects and fertility issues were raised, leading some participants to stop using contraceptives altogether.
Of particular concern to the researchers was that alcohol and drug abuse were identified as contributing factors to risky sexual behavior.
“Most participants reported consuming alcohol, and it was seen as hindering judgment and leading to unsafe sexual practices.”
The study also uncovered the importance of health education tailored to the specific needs and interests of university students.
Many participants expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of existing health campaigns and their willingness to listen.
“Improving the quality and delivery of health education programs is necessary to engage students and address their specific concerns,” the researchers counsel.
The findings also emphasized the influence of students’ newfound freedom and the lack of open communication with their intimate partners.
This lack of communication was attributed to cultural factors and discomfort in discussing sex, according to the study.
Recommendations
Based on the study’s findings, the researchers made several recommendations to address the high rates of STIs and unplanned pregnancies among MUT students.
The researchers recommend improving health education and information-sharing opportunities at the MUT Clinic.
They further recommend the utilization of communication platforms such as radio and social media for health education.
They argue that this would enhance the visibility of peer educators in student residences, addressing socioeconomic and cultural factors, and promoting personal responsibility and self-care.
While the study provides valuable insights into the factors contributing to the high rates of STIs and unplanned pregnancies among MUT students, the researchers acknowledge its limitations.
“The use of qualitative methodology restricted the ability to determine prevalence rates and assess relationships between risky behaviors and specific demographic factors,” they write.
“Additionally, the results primarily reflect the experiences of urban university students and may not be generalizable to other settings,” they add.
HIV in South Africa
South Africa has been grappling with the devastating impact of the HIV/AIDS pandemic for many years.
According to UNAIDS, by the end of 2020, approximately 20.4% of adults aged 15-49 in South Africa were living with HIV, highlighting the significant burden of infection in the country.
Among the most affected groups are young women and adolescent girls, who experience higher rates of HIV infection compared to their male counterparts.
Other populations at increased risk include men who have sex with men, sex workers, and individuals who use injectable drugs.
The HIV/AIDS crisis in South Africa is a grave public health concern due to its profound impact on both the population and the healthcare system.
It has led to increased mortality rates, strained healthcare resources, and economic challenges.
Interventions
Despite the prevalence rates, the South African government has implemented various initiatives to control the epidemic.
These include a National Strategic Plan on HIV, TB, and STIs, efforts to increase HIV testing and treatment, prevention programs, voluntary medical male circumcision, and support for orphans and vulnerable children affected by HIV/AIDS.
The full paper can be accessed at https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/20/3/2418 and for more information, please write to emekaokonji@yahoo.com.
About MUT:
MUT is a South African University of Technology where the student population consists of males, females, and others within the age range of 17 to 30 years.
At MUT, over 14, 590 students reside in various accommodations, including the institution’s on-campus and off-campus residences, as well as private rental houses and their own homes.
The university is predominantly Black African students, with a small number of White, Indian, and students of other races.
The majority of students come from South Africa, while a few are from neighboring countries such as Zimbabwe, Eswatini, Lesotho, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
About the Researchers:
Munyaradzi Saruchera: He is a Senior Lecturer at Stellenbosch University, South Africa. He is an experienced pracademic, facilitator, educator, and researcher, with a demonstrated competence in social change and critical community development. Apart from being a natural communicator, his core skills – honed through extensive experience – include project development and management, leadership development, research, monitoring and evaluation, policy analysis, and process facilitation.
Emeka Francis Okonji: With 22 publications to his name, Dr. Okonji is a public health specialist and researcher at the University of Western Cape. His passion is to proffer solutions to public health issues. He has honed his skills and expertise in HIV/AIDS, Young Adults, Implementation, HIV Prevention, Surveillance and Infectious Disease Epidemiology
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