Abstract:
Background: Epidemiological studies have shown that the peak incidence of HIV/AIDS occurs
in young people aged 15-24 years. Sexual behaviors like early sexual debut, multiple sexual
partners, inconsistent use of condom increase the risk of HIV/AIDS among youth. The students
in University enjoy the freedom of living outside the guidance of their parents; if this is not
managed properly it increases the likelihood to have of risky sexual behavior and HIV infection.
It is imperative to monitor HIV among young people in universities for proper and timely action.
Objective: This research objective was to determine the prevalence of HIV infection among Dire
Dawa university students and identify risk factors for HIV sero-positivity.
Method: A cross sectional study with internal comparison was conducted among students of
Dire Dawa. A self administrated questionnaire was used to gather relevant information and blood
test was conducted for HIV antibody. The two information were linked anonymously.
Qualitative data was collected using Focus group discussion.
Result: The prevalence of HIV was 2.5% (95% CI 1.5, 3.5) (2.3% for female and 2.7% for male)
with no significant difference between male and female. The students having sexual affair with
same sex or both sexes were significantly 10.45 times (95% CI 1.93, 56.41) to be exposed to
HIV than those having sexual affairs with only opposite sex. Having non-regular partner is
significantly associated with HIV positivity among sexually active (OR=6.35 and 95% CI 2.2,
18.3). Drinking alcohol and chewing chat was a risk factor for commencing sexual intercourse
among male with (OR=2.73 and 95% CI 1.72, 4.33) and (OR=2.02 and 95% CI 1.19, 3.42)
respectively.
Conclusion: The students in the university are at risk of HIV infection, it is necessary to target
them earlier in the high school and later when joining college by building their knowledge and
skill to avoid risky sexual behavior.
