title: The Gap Between Knowledge and Practice of Risky Sexual Behaviors for HIV Among University Students and Staff in Moshi Town in Tanzania.
abstract: Knowledge on HIV spread is important in combating HIV/AIDS, however its impact can only be realized if put into practice. This study was carried out in a Higher Learning Institution in Moshi Township in Kilimanjaro Region to assess the level of awareness of university communities about HIV/AIDs and its link with practice of risky sexual behaviors (RSB). We have found an adequate level of knowledge on the spread, risk behaviors and methods for protection leading to attendance to voluntary testing and counseling by 61% of respondents. Conversely, we have observed great extent of practice of RSBs including early sexual debut (16.7 years), having multiple and extramarital partners, involvement in practices that lead to unprotected sexual intercourse. We report an obvious gap between knowledge and behavior. This study therefore recommends that serious operational interventions must be put in place targeting the most sexually active groups, the youth in preliminary schools to sensitize on RSBs and ways to avoid them before they are engaged in sexual activities.
authors.affiliation: Stefano Moshi Memorial University College, Tumaini University.
authors.forename: Edith
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Kwigizile
authors.affiliation: Stefano Moshi Memorial University College, Tumaini University.
authors.forename: Ebernezar
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Shao
authors.affiliation: Stefano Moshi Memorial University College, Tumaini University.
authors.forename: Greyson
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Mtango
authors.affiliation: Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center.
authors.forename: Tolbert
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Sonda
authors.affiliation: Muhimbili Orthopedic Institute, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences.
authors.forename: Juliana
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Moshi
authors.affiliation: Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center; Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Tumaini University, Tanzania.
authors.forename: Jaffu
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Chilongola
keywords: AIDS; HIV; risky behaviors; sexual debut