Sociodemographic characteristics of people tested HIV-positive by notifying testing facilities in Papua New Guinea,
- Author:
McKenzie Maviso
1
Author Information
1. School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- From:
Papua New Guinea medical journal
2019;62(3-4):132-143
- CountryPapua New Guinea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Introduction: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection continues to be a growing public health burden in HIV-endemic countries, including Papua New Guinea (PNG). The aim of this analysis was to describe the sociodemographic characteristics and sexual risk behaviours of people tested positive with HIV by notifying testing facilities in PNG.Methods: A descriptive analysis was conducted using the national HIV/STI (sexually transmitted infection) surveillance data from 2010 to 2014. Descriptive statistics were utilized to compare categorical variables: sociodemographic characteristics, reasons for HIV testing and HIV-related risk factors. The chi-squared test was conducted to ascertain differences between categorical variables. Results: There were 13,687 HIV-positive cases, with a mean age of 34.9 years (± SD 10.1) for males and 28.2 years (± SD 8.2) for females. 62% were female, of whom 36% were aged 15-24 years and 39% had no formal education. The overall proportion who were married was 66%, many in polygamous relationships. 64% of females and 45% of males were unemployed. 60% overall were from the Highlands Region. 51% of people were tested HIV-positive through voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) services, along with clinical suspicion (30%). Heterosexual sex with non-regular sex partners was an important risk factor in both males (57%) and females (59%). The number of HIV-positive cases reported decreased significantly over the 5-year period. Conclusions: The study found specific sociodemographic factors and risky sexual behaviours, along with high HIV infection rates, in geographically concentrated settings. This demands comprehensive antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage, with context-specific and targeted behavioural change prevention strategies, in accordance with the national HIV treatment cascade.
