Predictors of risky sexual behavior among students aged 15 to 24 years in the Suhum municipality, Eastern region of Ghana. Issue 1 (2nd January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Anokye, Titus Bediako-Puni; Charles-Unadike, Veronica O.; Anaman-Torgbor, Judith A.; Tarkang, Elvis Enowbeyang
• Is Part Of: Journal of HIV/AIDS & social services. Volume 21:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 27
• Page End: 47
• Publication Date: 2022-01-02
• Subjects: Risky sexual behavior -- students -- Suhum Municipality -- Ghana -- Health Belief Model; AIDS (Disease) -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Services for -- Periodicals; 362.1969792005
• DOI: 10.1080/15381501.2021.2007197
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1538-1501

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Sexual behavior among youths has been a focus of health programmes worldwide. Risky sexual behaviors among youth in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) predispose them to HIV infection. The current study determined the predictors of risky sexual behavior among students aged 15–24 years in the Suhum Municipality, Ghana guided by the Health Belief Model (HBM). Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional design, collecting data using a structured pretested questionnaire and analyzing them using SPSS version 20 software program at the level 0.05. Results: The overall prevalence of risky sexual behavior was 59.1% among the participants. None of the constructs of the HBM was statistically associated with risky sexual behavior. However, participants who perceived that they were at risk of contracting HIV and who perceived HIV/AIDS to have severe consequences were more likely to practice safe sexual behavior. Conclusion: Health promotion programmes should aim at increasing youths' perception of the threat posed by HIV/AIDS.