Factors associated with risky sexual behaviors among Pwani university students, Kilifi district.

Abstract

Background: In this era of HIV and AIDS, issues of sexual behaviors among the youths are important. University students are not exceptional because they live in a mixed and relatively unregulated environment, which puts them at a high risk of risky sexual activities. Objective: To determine the factors associated with risky sexual behaviors among Pwani university students, Kilifi district. Methods: A cross-sectional study was used in the study. A total of 245 respondents were involved in the study using Simple random sampling method. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS Version 16.0. Results: The study revealed that 60.3% of the students reported to be indulging in sexual encounters in the past 12 months and did not use a condom. 52% of them reported to be practicing sexual intercourse after alcohol consumption and 48.5% of them reported to be having multiple sexual partners whereas 12% reported having sex with prostitutes. Conclusion: The study established that the level of indulgence in risky sexual behaviors was high among Pwani University Students especially after consumption of alcohol, use of narcotic drugs and with commercial sex workers. The study highlights the need for raising the level of awareness to students on the dangers associated with indulgence in risky sexual behaviors.