Master of Public Health

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Browsing Master of Public Health by Author "Abel Tadesse"

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    Determinants of HIV Testing Among High School Students in Asella Town, Arsi Zone, Southeastern Ethiopia, 2025 G.C
    (2025-05-01) Abel Tadesse
    Abstract Background: HIV testing is a powerful tool for personal health and global public health, enabling early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of HIV transmission. An estimated 39.9 million (36.1–44.6 million) people were living with HIV at the end of 2023, of which 1.4 million (1.1–1.7 million) children (0–14 years old). In Ethiopia, Africa’s second most populous country, only 63% of HIV-positive youth 15–24 years are aware of their HIV-positive status after being tested for the first time. Objective: This study aimed to assess the magnitude and determinants of HIV testing among high school students in Asella Town, Arsi Zone, Southeastern Ethiopia, in 2025 G.C. Method: An institution based cross-sectional study was implemented among high school students in Asella town, 2025. The target population included high school students attending schools in Asella town. With a lottery method representing schools ( one Governmental, one public and one private ) were selected and the students from grades 9-12 were the study units. With a multi stage stratified sampling technique 568 students were recruited. Data was collected using a standardized questionnaire translated into Amharic and back-translated for accuracy. Data analysis involved both descriptive and analytical statistics. After data collection, the data was coded, entered and analyzed by using Epi info 7.2.5 and SPSS version 26 software. Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to control for potential confounding factors and to identify the independent effects of the explanatory variables on HIV testing among high school students. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were reported to quantify the strength of associations together with their p values. Results : Students who report experiencing peer pressure are 37 times more likely to undergo HIV/AIDS testing compared to those who do not report experiencing peer pressure ( AOR = 36.98, 95% CI 28.78, 42.72, P < 0.001 ). Being tested for HIV prior to intercourse is 22 times more likely to happen than being tested without the possibility of intercourse happening in the near future ( AOR = 22.04 , 95% CI 15.21, 28. 23, P <0.001). History of prior sexual intercourse ( AOR = 5.89, 95% CI: 2.03, 11.99, P < 0.001) and Alcohol consumption ( AOR = 3.68, 95% CI 1.25, 8.87, P = 0.008) were also found to be associated with likeliness of being tested for HIV/AIDS among high school students. Conclusion and Recommendation: HIV testing among high school students was a common occurrence (60.27%). The independent determinants that were identified here were grade level, history of prior intercourse, testing prior to having sex, alcohol consumption and peer pressure regarding HIV/AIDS. Testing prior to having sex, strong youth groups in high schools and having guidance counsellor with test kits being readily available for testing are highly recommended. Keywords: HIV testing, High school students, Ethiopia