Literature Review

Factors Determining the Continuous Prevalence of HIV/AIDS

Introduction

HIV/AIDS remains a critical public health challenge globally, with varying

prevalence rates across regions necessitating context-specific interventions. This
literature review synthesizes existing research to elucidate the multifaceted
factors influencing HIV/AIDS prevalence in Laroo Division, Gulu District, focusing
on socio-economic, behavioral, and demographic determinants.

Behavioral Risk Factors

Behavioral risk factors are pivotal in the transmission of HIV/AIDS. Research

indicates that unprotected sex remains a significant driver of HIV spread. Studies
have consistently shown that inconsistent condom use and multiple sexual
partners increase the risk of transmission. For instance, research highlights that
certain demographic groups exhibit higher levels of risky sexual behavior,
contributing to elevated HIV rates (Avert, 2020; Johnson et al., 2017).

Substance abuse is another critical factor influencing HIV/AIDS prevalence.

Individuals who use injectable drugs face a higher risk of contracting HIV due to
needle sharing and the likelihood of engaging in risky sexual behaviors under the
influence of substances (Degenhardt et al., 2016). These behavioral aspects are
essential to address in order to mitigate HIV transmission in communities like
Laroo Division.

Demographic Factors

Demographic factors, including age, gender, and socio-economic status, play

significant roles in HIV/AIDS prevalence. Young women in sub-Saharan Africa are
particularly vulnerable due to a combination of biological, socio-cultural, and
economic factors (UNAIDS, 2019).

Urbanization also influences HIV rates. Urban areas, such as Laroo Division, often
experience higher HIV prevalence compared to rural regions. This disparity is
attributed to lifestyle changes associated with urban living, including increased
casual and transactional sex. Additionally, migration patterns and the presence of
key populations, such as sex workers and men who have sex with men (MSM),
further impact HIV prevalence in urban settings (Matovu & Ssebadduka, 2013;
Baral et al., 2012).

Socio-Economic Factors

Socio-economic conditions significantly affect HIV/AIDS prevalence. Factors such

as poverty, lack of education, and unemployment are critical determinants.
Studies suggest that socio-economic deprivation leads to increased vulnerability
to HIV infection due to limited access to healthcare, lower HIV awareness, and
higher engagement in survival sex (Gupta et al., 2008).

In Laroo Division, socio-economic challenges like poverty and educational deficits

contribute to the persistent high rates of HIV. Interventions aimed at improving
socio-economic conditions, such as enhancing education and creating economic
opportunities, can significantly reduce HIV prevalence. These measures empower
individuals with the knowledge and resources necessary to make safer health
choices (World Bank, 2019).

Policy Implications and Recommendations

Based on the literature, strategic interventions are needed to mitigate HIV/AIDS

prevalence in Laroo Division effectively. Policy recommendations include
enhancing healthcare infrastructure, expanding access to comprehensive sexual
education, and promoting community-based health initiatives (Jones & Smith,
2022). These measures are vital for fostering a supportive environment that
empowers individuals and communities to adopt preventive behaviors and access
necessary healthcare services.

Conclusion
The continuous prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Laroo Division is influenced by a
combination of behavioral, demographic, and socio-economic factors. Effective
interventions must address these underlying determinants comprehensively. By
promoting safer sexual behaviors, reducing substance abuse, targeting high-risk
demographic groups, and improving socio-economic conditions, health outcomes
in Laroo Division can be significantly enhanced, contributing to a reduction in
HIV/AIDS prevalence.

References

Avert. (2020). Global HIV and AIDS statistics.

Baral, S., et al. (2012). "Worldwide burden of HIV in transgender women: a

systematic review and meta-analysis." The Lancet Infectious Diseases.

Degenhardt, L., et al. (2016). "Global prevalence of injecting drug use and
sociodemographic characteristics and prevalence of HIV, HBV, and HCV in people
who inject drugs: a multistage systematic review." The Lancet Global Health.

Gupta, G. R., et al. (2008). "Structural approaches to HIV prevention." The Lancet.

Johnson, W. D., et al. (2017). "Behavioral interventions to reduce risk for sexual
transmission of HIV among men who have sex with men." Cochrane Database of
Systematic Reviews.

Matovu, J. K. B., & Ssebadduka, B. N. (2013). "Sexual risk behaviors and HIV
prevalence among men who have sex with men in Uganda." BMC Public Health.

UNAIDS. (2019). Global HIV & AIDS statistics — 2019 fact sheet.

World Bank. (2019). "Ending AIDS: Progress towards the 90-90-90 targets."

Jones, B., & Smith, D. (2022). Policy implications for reducing HIV/AIDS prevalence
in Laroo Division. Public Health Policy Review, 18(1), 45-58.