Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Sexually Transmitted Infections and Tuberculosis Risk Assessments among Key Populations in Nigeria.

Abstract

Abstract Background HIV key populations in Nigeria continue to face social stigma and legal implications. Homosexuality, use of any kind of drugs, and sex work remain illegal in the country. This prevents such individuals from seeking and accessing health services, resulting in an increased incidence and prevalence of HIV as well as opportunistic diseases like TB and STIs among key populations. A challenge remains, however, in determining the risk levels and prevalence of these diseases as key populations are unwilling to come forward. This study aims to carry out a risk assessment among key populations in Ondo State, Nigeria. Methodology Analysis was carried out to find out the risk factors among the key populations in the given sample. Various variables were first assessed against HIV, TB and STI (outcome variables) using a bivariate analysis to see which variables had a significant correlation with each of the outcome variables. After which, a multi-logistic regression analysis was carried out to identify which risk factors were significantly correlated. Findings Whilst the unadjusted odds ratios were reported in the results section, the main discussion was focused on adjusted odds ratios (AOR). Based on the AOR findings, men were shown to be at a higher risk of STI, HIV and TB. This is possibly due to the sample comprising of men who have sex with men, a key population with little to no access to health educations and services. Middle aged participants (36–45 year olds) had a higher risk than the younger and older age groups, due to their higher tendencies to be involved in risky sexual behaviours. Single participants were observed to have similar (in the case of HIV) or higher odds of the other outcomes in comparison to their married counterparts. There were not enough participants among separated groups to determine their odds ratio in comparison to other groups. Conclusion Key population groups in Nigeria continue to be at a disadvantage due to the legal restrictions imposed on them. Studies have shown that there is a slightly increased prevalence rate of HIV and STIs among PLHIV. Various factors were investigated and cross-tabulated with the diseases of interest and possible confounders were discussed.