HIV/AIDS among youths in Gulu: a post-conflict northern Uganda

ABSTRACT

HIV/AIDS is one of the commonest reasons for admission of youths in Gulu Hospital. There are no specific studies that have been carried out to determine the prevalence of HIV/AIDS among the youths in this post-conflict region. This study aimed to describe the characteristics of HIV positive youths attending care in Gulu Hospital. A cross-sectional study was conducted among youths aged 13 to 24 years in the specific clinics of Gulu Hospital from January to December 2010 to identify and describe those youths that were HIV positive. A total sample size of 280 HIV positive patients was calculated using the Kish & Leslie formula. Ethical approval was obtained from Gulu Hospital Committee. Majority of respondents 174 (62%) who re-tested for HIV knew their HIV status and most tested between April and June 90 (32%). HIV infection was more prevalent among females 252 (90%), particularly those who were single 118 (47%). HIV infection is more common among female youths in the post-conflict northern Uganda.