FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH HEALTH-SEEKING BEHAVIOR FOR HIV PREVENTION AMONG ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG PERSONS (AYPS) IN TANGA REGION. PHILIPO MWAMBUGA

Abstract

Background: Despite expanded HIV prevention efforts in Tanzania—including condom distribution, HIV testing, PrEP, and youth-friendly services—health-seeking behaviors among adolescents and young persons (AYPs) remain suboptimal, particularly in regions like Tanga. National data (TDHS-MIS, 2022; PEPFAR, 2023) indicate that fewer than half of young women (42%) and men (38%) aged 15–24 possess comprehensive HIV knowledge, and under 50% of sexually active AYPs have tested for HIV in the past year. In Tanga, local data suggest persistent barriers such as limited knowledge, stigma, negative provider attitudes, cost, and distance to health facilities hinder service uptake. Objective: To assess HIV prevention-related health-seeking behaviors and associated individual and institutional factors among AYPs in Tanga Region. Methods: This study adopts a Community Based Analytical cross-sectional design using quantitative research approach. Data were collected from 384 AYPs aged 15–24 in Handeni District Council (DC) and Handeni Town Council (TC) across six health facilities. A structured questionnaire captured demographic data and health-seeking behavior. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Among the 384 participants, 82.9% had tested for HIV, 84.3% had received counseling, and 80.7% had used at least one prevention method. Key factors associated with health-seeking behavior included age (COR = 4.56), HIV knowledge (COR = 7.68), and service availability (COR = 6.17). Cultural beliefs (COR = 2.87) and perceived stigma (COR = 3.45) also showed associations. After adjustment, primary (AOR = 3.20, p = 0.010) and secondary education (AOR = 3.46, p = 0.004), and service availability (AOR = 4.89, p < 0.001) remained significant predictors. Conclusion: Health-seeking behaviors among AYPs in Tanga were encouraging. Improving education and access to youth-friendly services is key to further enhancing HIV prevention. Tanga offers a model for similar settings.