Sexuality among street children in selected cities of Malawi (Blantyre AND Lilongwe) in light of HIV and AIDS
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Date
2009-12
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Kamuzu University of Health Sciences
Abstract
This was an exploratory study whose aim was to explore knowledge on STIs and HIV
and AIDS, and establish awareness, accessibility and utilization of the relevant
preventive, curative and rehabilitative services among street children in light of 11V and AIDS. The qualitative research design was used to build a picture on participants' knowledge on STIs and HIV and AIDS, and service accessibility and utilization. 21 street children chosen by convenient sampling were recruited and the study was conducted in Lilongwe and Blantyre (Limbe) urban streets through Tikondane children's center and Chisomo Children's Clubs respectively. Data was collected using an interview guide and in depth, interviews were conducted on one to one basis with the street children. A tape recorder was used to record the interviews and the data collected was analyzed manually using content analysis. The study established that street children pose a significantly low level of knowledge on STIs and HIV and AIDS in regards to the mode of transmission and prevention. The findings also revealed that there are a lot of high risk sexual behaviors on the street and street environments extremely place street children at a higher risk for STIs and HIV and AIDS. It was also apparent from the findings that majority of street children are not aware of the relevant preventive, curative and rehabilitative services provided in light of HIV and AIDS. Against the background of low level of knowledge and high risk sexual behaviors along with poor accessibility and utilisation of STIs and HIV and AIDS, street