POPLINE Document Number: 276704
Author(s):
Adebajo SB
Mafeni J
Moreland S
Murray N
Source citation:
Washington, D.C., Futures Group International, POLICY Project, 2002 Sep. [102] p. (USAID Contract No. HRN-C-00-00-00006-00)
Abstract:
The first behavioural survey conducted in the Nigerian Armed Forces to elicit behavioural information that would contribute to a better understanding of the dynamics and underlying factors of the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and HIV/AIDS in the military was carried out between May and August 2001. The nationally representative survey was conducted amongst nearly 1,600 military personnel randomly selected from the three service arms of the Nigerian Armed Forces. Detailed information on the knowledge and attitudes regarding STDs and HIV/AIDS and on risky behaviour patterns was elicited. Also, information on some socio-demographic factors that could have possible explanatory value or confounding effects was obtained. The survey reveals that Nigerian military personnel are very educated and dedicated, with long-term career investments in the military that imply personal and professional hardships and risks. Of concern is that Nigerian military personnel find themselves in professional and personal situations that lead to engaging in high-risk behaviours that could put them at risk of contracting STDs, including HIV. Furthermore, in view of the fact that military personnel live with and interact freely with the civilian population, they could serve as a potential core transmission group for these infections to the larger population. This is of great concern and calls for prompt interventions. Whilst military personnel are more aware of HIV/AIDS than the general population, more could be done by the Nigerian military to protect their dedicated officers and men to the extent possible from the risks to which they are exposed. (excerpt)
Keywords:
NigeriaIndex page
Research Report
Cross Sectional Analysis
Questionnaires
KAP Surveys
Attitude
Military Personnel
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
HIV Infections
Risk Reduction Behavior
Condom Use
Prevention and Control
Sex Education
Africa, Western
Africa, Sub Saharan
Africa
Developing Countries
Research Methodology
Surveys
Sampling Studies
Studies
Psychological Factors
Behavior
Government
Political Factors
Reproductive Tract Infections
Infections
Diseases
Viral Diseases
Education