| dc.description.abstract | vi
ABSTRACT
Introduction: HIV continues to pose a significant public health challenge, particularly among the youth in
Kisumu County, where the prevalence of HIV and AIDS is notably high. This study aimed to identify the
factors contributing to the spread of HIV and AIDS among individuals aged 18-29.
Method: A stratified sampling method, followed by simple random sampling, was employed to select 372
respondents from Kisumu County Referral Hospital. Data were collected using structured questionnaires
and analyzed using descriptive statistics, presented in pie charts, tables, and bar graphs.
Results: The study found that 83.3% of respondents viewed HIV and AIDS as a curse, reflecting a lack of
understanding of its transmission. A significant 91.3% demonstrated poor attitudes toward condom use,
with many not engaging in protective behaviors. Additionally, cultural practices such as wife inheritance
and women seeking multiple partners during childbirth were identified as factors that increase vulnerability
to HIV.
Conclusion:The findings highlight the urgent need for educational interventions targeting HIV
transmission and prevention, as well as a cultural shift away from practices that facilitate the spread of the
virus among youths in Kisumu County Referral Hospital | en_US |
