ABSTRACT
Background: There is very limited information available on HIV related orphansand vulnerable children (HIV-OVC) in Myanmar. Hence, the objective of this studywas to identify and compare the social, education and health consequencesamong HIV‑OVC and children from the families not related to HIV in the sameneighbourhoods (neighbouring children).Materials and Methods: A cross‑sectional, comparative survey was carried out inthree geographical locations. Face‑to‑face interviews were conducted with guardiansand children using a pretested structured questionnaire including Strength andDifficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) for behavioural problems. Outcome measureswere compared using Chi‑squared test or ‘t’ test or ‘Rank‑sum’ test.Results: A total of 300 HIV-OVC and 300 neighbouring children were included. Agreater number of HIV-OVC than their neighbouring children have experienced familydisplacement from their original homes (27% and 1%), child/sibling displacement(20%and 2.7%) and family dispersion (20.3% and 1.3%) (P < 0.001). More guardians ofHIV‑OVC reported that the disease affected their children’s education (28.2% and16.3%; P < 0.05). Fifteen per cent of HIV‑OVC and 10.5% of neighbouring childrenhad to work for their families (P < 0.05). Psychological condition was assessedon emotional, conduct, hyperactivity/inattention, peer relationship and prosocialbehaviour. A greater number of HIV‑OVC were noted in the abnormal category withregard to hyperactivity and prosocial behaviours (P < 0.05).Conclusions: Higher incidence of social and psychological consequences amongHIV‑OVC call for more community support programmes and creation of jobopportunities to minimize social impact in the affected families. Future programmesshould focus on counselling of HIV‑OVC and providing psychological support.