Awareness of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV Prevention among Sexually Active Adults in Omoku, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The need for the control of the spread and intensified effort towards the eradication of the most deadly diseases in the world today is a necessity.  Since there is no standardized cure for AIDS, prevention of HIV through PrEP was introduced to protect the HIV negative individuals and health professionals from becoming positive to the virus. PrEP is used to curb the rate of spread of the HIV infection thereby eradicating AIDS disease.

Aims: The main aim of the study is to ascertain the awareness of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention among sexually active adults in Omoku, Rivers.

Method: This quantitative study was based on the data collected from sexually active adults in Omoku, Rivers using structured questionnaire. The researcher collected data from those visiting the HTC unit of Omoku general hospital on their clinic days. The questionnaires were administered by the researcher over a period of four weeks, with assistance from four (4) trained volunteers (HTC counselors).

Results: The findings of the study showed that there was less awareness, low availability, and low usage of PrEP among sexually active adults in Omoku and they have not been told or sensitized about PrEP and its usefulness. Although, sexually active adults in Omoku reported that they are willing to use PrEP if it safe to use and also recommended by physician but they have no interest using it daily.

Conclusion: Government and health workers should collaborate in other to create awareness and sensitize people about the usefulness of PrEP.

Keywords: Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), HIV, AIDS, Sexually Active

DOI: 10.7176/JHMN/88-08

Publication date: April 30^th 2021