CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
The HIV/AIDS pandemic is a significant global health issue, with a profound impact on public health. It has led to the establishment of international, national, and state agencies to coordinate efforts to control the spread of the virus. Globally, millions of people are living with the disease, and Africa has the highest incidence rate, contributing to a substantial number of new cases worldwide. Nigeria, with its large population, is one of the countries most affected by the virus, and some states within Nigeria, like Akwa Ibom, have particularly high prevalence rates.
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which attacks the immune system, leaving individuals susceptible to opportunistic infections. The progression of the disease can vary widely from person to person. Initially, people living with HIV may show no symptoms or mild symptoms, and this period, known as the latency period, can last for years. During this time, individuals may not be aware that they are infected and can unknowingly spread the virus to others.
The patterns of health-seeking behavior among individuals with HIV/AIDS have a significant impact on the spread of the virus. In Akwa Ibom State, pregnant women, especially in rural areas, often opt for Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) instead of seeking care from certified medical personnel, which puts them at risk of infection. Some cultural practices, such as female circumcision, have also facilitated the spread of the virus. Additionally, there is a lack of awareness and understanding of HIV/AIDS in some areas, contributing to the myth that the disease does not exist.
The timing of health-seeking behavior is crucial, and some individuals seek medical care late in the course of their illness. Fear of stigma and discrimination can deter people from getting tested for HIV and seeking proper medical care. Some may resort to alternative methods of healing or self-medication instead. These behaviors and attitudes can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, allowing the virus to spread further.
The high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Akwa Ibom State, particularly among married couples, calls for a better understanding of the factors that influence health-seeking behavior and contribute to the spread of the virus. Research has primarily focused on socio-cultural factors and awareness, but a more comprehensive examination of health-seeking behavior is needed. Patients and individuals are not passive but active agents in the healthcare system, and understanding their behaviors and attitudes is crucial for improving control over the incidence and prevalence of AIDS. This study aims to fill the gap in research on the role of health-seeking behavior in the spread of HIV/AIDS in Akwa Ibom
1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
HIV/AIDS is a global medical and social issue that has affected millions of people worldwide. Despite significant progress in understanding the virus and developing medical interventions, millions have been infected, and many have died from AIDS-related illnesses. Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, has been severely impacted by the virus, with the youth being among the most affected groups. The prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the state has increased over the years, with Akwa Ibom ranking as the state with the highest prevalence in Nigeria.
Studies in Akwa Ibom have shown that the virus is prevalent among married couples, followed by those who engage in casual sex. A significant percentage of new HIV infections occur in young adults aged 15-19. Various factors influencing the spread of HIV/AIDS have been examined, including socio-cultural factors, community characteristics, and social stigmatization.
While there is a substantial body of literature on factors contributing to the spread of HIV/AIDS, research specifically focused on health-seeking behavior has been limited. Most studies have concentrated on socio-cultural aspects and awareness. However, understanding individuals' health-seeking behavior is crucial since patients and individuals play active roles in the healthcare delivery system.
This research aims to fill the gap in understanding how health-seeking behavior contributes to the prevalence and incidence of HIV/AIDS in Akwa Ibom State. By exploring this aspect, the study seeks to shed light on the role of individual behavior in the spread of the virus and provide insights that can inform public health interventions and strategies.
Top of Form
Bottom of Form
1.3 GENERAL OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY
The general objective of this study is to examine the influences of health seeking behavior on high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Akwa Ibom State
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
The specific objectives of the study are:
- To examine risk perception and high prevalence of the virus in Akwa Ibom State.
- To examine the choice of medical care and high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Akwa Ibom State,
- To examine timing of initiation of care and high prevalence of HIV/AIDS kin Akwa Ibom State.
1.4 RESEARCH QUESTION
The research questions for this study are as follows:
- How does the risk perception of respondents affect the high prevalence of the virus in Akwa Ibom State.
- How does the choice of medical care affect the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Akwa Ibom State.
- How does the timing of initiation of care affect the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Akwa Ibom State.
1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
There is a voluminous research literature on health seeking behavior. Some works focus on the socio-cultural aspects of the behavior while others examine the characteristics health seeking behaviors of some specific groups and population as they relate to the management and the control of a particular health related problem. No research has so far been conducted on the health seeking behavior and high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Akwa Ibom State. This research will therefore add to the existing body of knowledge on the role of health seeking behavior on the control of HIV/AIDS. The study will also prove a valuable contribution and resource for policy makers and health planners, governments, agencies and organizations who are bent on tackling the spread of the virus.
1.6 SCOPE OF THE STUDY
This research is centered on health seeking behavior and high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Akwa Ibom State. The study will be conducted in Uyo Local Government Area with specific focus on Oku community. The target population is 15 year olds and above cutting across both sexes. Uyo is chosen due to its heterogeneous population constituted by various ethnic groups that make up the state and influx of visitors to the state capital.
1.7. LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY
Inadequate funding and time with the major challenge of the research. Some respondents had to be assured to extreme confidentiality before disclosing information related to HIV/AIDS
