Correlates of HIV knowledge and sexual risk behaviors among female military personnel

Uniformed services personnel are at an increased risk of HIV infection. We examined the HIV/AIDS knowledge and sexual risk behaviors among female military personnel to determine the correlates of HIV risk behaviors in this population.

The study used a cross-sectional design to examine HIV/AIDS knowledge and sexual risk behaviors in a sample of 346 females drawn from two military cantonments in Southwestern Nigeria. Data was collected between 2006 and 2007. Using bivariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression, HIV/AIDS knowledge and sexual behaviors were described in relation to socio-demographic characteristics of the participants.

Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that level of education and knowing someone with HIV/AIDS were significant [p < 0.05] predictors of HIV knowledge in this sample. Condom use self-efficacy was significantly [p < 0.05] predicted by annual income and ethnicity. Condom use attitudes were also significantly [p < 0.05] associated with number of children, annual income, and number of sexual partners.

Data indicates the importance of incorporating these predictor variables into intervention designs.