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East African Journal of Public Health
East African Public Health Association
ISSN: 0856-8960
Vol. 5, No. 2, 2008, pp. 55-61
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Bioline Code: lp08012
Full paper language: English
Document type: Research Article
Document available free of charge
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East African Journal of Public Health, Vol. 5, No. 2, 2008, pp. 55-61
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Disabled persons and HIV/ AIDS prevention: A case study of deaf and leprosy persons in Nigeria
Enwereji, Ezinna E. & Enwereji, Kelechi O.
Abstract
Objective (s):
(i) To investigate factors and conditions that influence HIV/AIDS prevention among leprosy and deaf persons in leprosy
settlements in Nigerian; (ii) to examine the extent to which the Government includes leprosy and deaf persons in HIV prevention
programmes; (iii) To identify immediate needs of leprosy and deaf patients in settlements (iv) to determine possible areas for
improving services so as to explore potential solutions
Methods:
Total sample of 227 inmates and 34 Health Care Workers were studied in three purposively selected settlements. Two
intervention concepts, participatory reservation approach (PRA) and planned action (PLA) were utilized in the study. The concepts
enabled researchers to examine factors that influenced provision of HIV/AIDS prevention programmes to inmates in settlements. Data
collection instruments were questionnaire and focus group discussions for inmates and interview guides for Health Workers. Data
were analysed qualitatively and quantitatively with the help of Stat Pac Gold package.
Results:
Findings showed that there were no reproductive health and and HIV prevention programmes in the settlements. There was
lack of Governments' commitment to fund health programmes and to train Health Workers, as well as rejection, isolation,
discrimination and discouragement of HIV/AIDS prevention programmes in settlements. There was poor knowledge of mode of
transmission of HIV/AIDS among inmates. About 59 (53.6%) of inmates in Abia, and 60 (51.3%) in Oyo were not interested in
voluntary counselling and sex education. Findings showed that inmates in the leprosy settlements were at risk of unprotected sex.
About 99 (43.6%) in Oyo and 88 (38.8%) in Abia State, especially those who were single cohabited with opposite sexes to have babies
in settlements (p = 003).
Conclusion:
Number of inmates that had babies in settlements justifies providing sex education, reproductive health and HIV/AIDS
prevention programmes. This will assist in reducing HIV/AIDS prevalence among disabled persons in Nigeria.
Keywords
Leprosy, deafness, HIV/AIDS, family planning, Nigeria
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© Copyright 2008 - East African Journal of Public Heath
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