Abstract:
This is a case study of Adabraka on the perception of female vulnerability and risk factors to HIV/AIDS Adabraka was chosen because of its heavy night activity such as nightclubs and drinking spots, which have generated into high incidence of prostitution. At the beginning of the HIV/AIDS epidemic men were most infected persons as the mode of transmissions was mostly by exchange of syringe and homosexual activity. As the disease began to spread heterosexual intercourse became the major mode of transmission, then did women become more vulnerable. AIDS in Africa is a death sentence. Antiretroviral drugs that have helped other parts of the world have been unaffordable in Africa.
The study sought to: Tofind out whether whose knowledge base on HTV/AIDS is related to a type of formal education.
Tofind out their source of information on HIV/AIDS and who transmit it.
To examine their knowledge of contraceptive and its use which makes them vulnerable to HIV/AIDS
To examine how their knowledge base affects their practice in sexual relations.
To determine the factors necessary for educating women on HIV/AIDS which will include female vulnerability.
A sample size of 150, comprising 60 women and 30 men from the residents of Adabraka, simple random sampling was used for this group, 20 prostitutes (10 roamers and 10 sitters) and HIV/AIDS seropositive patients who attend Adabraka polyclinic. For this group purposive sample was used. With the aid of statistical tables, the data were analysed in simple percentage. In reviewing the various literatures, it came to light that there were various factors, which make women more prone to the HIV/AIDS virus. These were widowhood rites, divorce, female genital mutilation, mobility and migration and gender dynamics in socialisation. The findings of the study indicated that the knowledge base on HIV/AIDS had no relation to the formal education of the respondents. Knowledge on the mode of transmission was high. Radio did play a very important role in the transmission of information on HIV/AIDS. Knowledge on contraceptive were very high however, its use especially condoms was determined by the availability and the negotiating skills of the women. Though women were aware of the risk factors that make them vulnerable to HIV/AIDS their responses show that they had little or no control on their sexual relations. After the conclusion, various recommendations worth enhancing HIV/AIDS campaign were made.
