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This study investigated the factors influencing acceptability of HIV testing among married couples at Mbweni dispensary. The research objectives were to explore knowledge of married couples on the importance of HIV testing in marriage, to assess the attitude of married couples towards HIV testing in marriage, and to determine the level of acceptability of men to test for HIV status.
The study adopted a case study design and used interviews and questionnaires to collect primary data while secondary data were obtained from reviewed related literatures. The study involved 50 respondents of whom 15 were men, 35 were women. Moreover, the sampling techniques were both non-probability and probability sampling which include purposive sampling, convenient sampling and simple ramdom sampling. The study report is presented using descriptive statistics namely, frequencies and percentages.
From the findings of the study the majority 35 (70%) were not knowledgeable on the importance of HIV testing in marriage. Moreover, on the attitude towards HIV testing in marriage, it was found that 15 respondents, that is, 30% prefered to test their HIV status in marriage. Furthermore, on the acceptability by men on HIV testing the results showed that most of men who previously tested their HIV status were forced, 50% were forced by management so that they can be employed. [
On the recommendations, awareness through massive campaigns should be promoted as a strategy to make the married couples aware. Couples should be empowered to initiate and sustain communication around HIV and AIDS in order to reduce the negative attitude towards HIV testing and counseling which is enshrined in secrecy. Gender power balance should be encouraged as an expression of autonomy. Male testing campaign should be launched. Based on the findings it can be concluded that among the problems facing the family due to failure of practicing voluntary couples HIV testing is low level of awareness on the importance of couples testing their HIV status. |
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