Reviewing gender and cultural factors associated with HIV/AIDS among university students in the South African context

Abstract

South Africa is in the midst of a catastrophic AIDS epidemic. HIV prevalence statistics in most countries indicate that up to 60% of all new infections occur among 15 to 24 year olds, whilst this group also boasts the highest incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Statistical findings among South African students predict a 10% increase in the HIV infection rate, highlighting the inability of universities to cope with societies’ demands for academically trained workers which, in the near future, will have a detrimental effect on the economy of South Africa. From the literature it is evident that HIV/AIDS is more than a health issue, it is an inter-sectoral challenge to any society. This paper explored the interplay of gender and cultural factors on South African students’ sexual behaviour by inter alia discussing the following factors that might put students at risk for HIV infection: male dominance vs. female submissiveness; age of first sexual encounter; gender-based violence; contraception; circumcision; financial status; myths and ‘othering’; demonstrating the need for effective strategies, policies and programmes to protect young people, especially females from sexual abuse/rape and its consequences, including HIV. The literature review revealed that South African students, despite adequate HIV/AIDS knowledge, demonstrated high rates of sexual practices that place them at risk for HIV infection, i.e. unprotected sex, multiple partners and ‘sugar-daddy practices’. The paper concludes with a discussion on recommendations for future HIV prevention/ intervention programmes, highlighting the fact that it acquires an inclusive approach. Such interventions should move beyond the individual level to be effective and target gender-based inequalities, human rights violations, including sexual violence and rape, as well as stigma and poverty reduction, both at community and tertiary educational level

Exploring gender perceptions of risk of HIV infection and related behaviour among elderly men and women of Ga-Rankuwa, Gauteng Province, South Africa

“…Multiple partnerships are condoned and even encouraged for men, while women are expected to be monogamous and unquestioning of their partner’s behaviour and this facilitates the spreading of the virus in South Africa (Mswela 2009 :175). According to Van Staden and Badenhorst ( 2009 ), just as male dominance influences the sexual behaviour of females and places them at risk, so do cultural practices such as the male view of perceived masculinity also increases the male risk of contracting HIV infection. The same gender roles and relations that enhance women’s vulnerabilities to HIV/AIDS also increase some of the risks for men.…”

Food insecurity among students living with HIV: Strengthening safety nets at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, South Africa

“…In this study the poorer socio-economic bracket was independently associated with being HIV infected and transactional sex (in exchange for material gain) seems to be commonplace, leading to an increased HIV transmission risk. As statistical findings regarding sexual risk behaviour among students support an increase in the HIV infection rate at South African HEIs (Van Staden & Badenhorst 2009 ), the Higher Education & Training HIV/AIDS programme facilitates the implementation of a number of HIV prevention strategies. This ongoing programme assists HEIs to strengthen their response to the HIV and AIDS epidemic.…”

Racial differences in willingness to participate in HIV prevention clinical trials among university students in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

“…More White (34.62%; 17.13%) and Indian (23.64%; 9.09%) students were part- and full-time employed, respectively compared to Black students (14.00%; 4.34%). Lower financial status is a risk factor for HIV infection in South Africa (van Staden & Badenhorst, 2009). Students reliant on bursaries, which are often distributed late in the academic year, experience financial difficulties, resulting in some female students engaging in transactional sex (van Staden & Badenhorst, 2009).…”

“…Lower financial status is a risk factor for HIV infection in South Africa (van Staden & Badenhorst, 2009). Students reliant on bursaries, which are often distributed late in the academic year, experience financial difficulties, resulting in some female students engaging in transactional sex (van Staden & Badenhorst, 2009). However, employment status in this study did not influence intention to participate in HIV prevention trials.…”