The role of religious leaders on the use of HIV/AIDS prevention strategies among young people (15–24) in Lira district, Uganda

Abstract

Background Young people (15–24 years) bear the highest burden of new infections and are particularly vulnerable because of their highly risky behavior such as early sexual activity. There is paucity of information on the role of religious leaders in the multi-sectoral fight against HIV/AIDS. We examined the role of religious leaders in the use of HIV prevention strategies among young people. Methods A cross sectional study was conducted between March and April 2021 among 422 randomly selected young people in Lira district, Uganda. An interviewer administered a questionnaire to the young people in order to collect quantitative data. A total 20 key informants were purposively sampled and interviews were conducted with religious leaders using a key informant’s interview guide. Data was collected on social demographics, HIV prevention messages, and awareness about HIV prevention strategies. Data was analyzed using Stata version 15 using proportions, means, percentages, frequencies, and logistic regression analysis at a 95% level of significance. Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic content analysis and the major themes were generated from the participants’ responses. Results About 57.1% (241/422) of the respondents were females. The prevalence of use of HIV prevention strategies among young people was 69.4%. Factors significantly associated with the use of HIV prevention included completing the primary level (aOR 4.95, p< 0.05), completing at least A level (aOR 8.85, p < <0.05), Awareness of HIV prevention strategies advocated for by religious leaders (aOR 0.02, p<0.001), religious leaders provided targeted HIV prevention messages (aOR 2.53, p<0.01), Advocacy for abstinence outside marriage and fidelity in marriage (aOR 35.6, p<0.01), Religious leaders preaching about HIV prevention (aOR 4.88, p<0.001). Qualitative data indicated that a section of religious leaders recommended abstinence/faithfulness. Condom use was the most discouraged HIV prevention strategy. However, most religious leaders agree with the fact that they have a role to play in HIV prevention, which includes sensitization, teaching and organizing sermons about HIV prevention. Conclusion The use of HIV prevention strategies advocated for by religious leaders among young people was nearly 70%. This finding indicates that religious leaders have a role to play in HIV/AIDS prevention among young people in the Lira district. This calls for the involvement of religious leaders in HIV prevention programs tailored to prevent new infections of HIV among young people.

Knowledge and perceptions of religious leaders toward HIV prevention among young people in a resource-limited setting: A qualitative study

“…However, our ndings also revealed several barriers to the active participation of religious leaders in implementing HIV preventive initiatives among young people. These include con icting religious beliefs, inadequate knowledge about HIV prevention, and insu cient training on HIV prevention methods (7). Religious beliefs signi cantly in uence the decisions of religious leaders when recommending certain HIV prevention strategies, with some refraining from promoting condom use due to religious convictions (27,28).…”

“…While previous research indicates that religious leaders possess relatively good knowledge of HIV prevention, there is evidence of persistent misconceptions and negative attitudes toward certain prevention methods among some religious leaders (13,14). Moreover, studies have revealed a tendency among religious leaders to emphasize abstinence and faithfulness while providing limited support for condom use, despite the effectiveness of multi-strategy approaches to HIV prevention (7,15).…”

“…In Uganda, spiritual leaders have historically played a signi cant role in HIV prevention efforts, particularly before the introduction of condoms and antiretroviral drugs, emphasizing behavioral approaches (2,4). Recent studies have underscored the substantial contributions and reliability of spiritual leaders as partners in HIV prevention, particularly among young people, who constitute a signi cant proportion of new HIV infections globally (5)(6)(7). Uganda boasts a substantial population a liated with religious groups, affording religious leaders broader access to young people and a unique platform to promote moral teachings and behavior change.…”

Factors Influencing ART Adherence Among Persons Living with HIV Enrolled in Community Client-Led Art Delivery Groups in Lira District, Uganda: A Qualitative Study

“… 21 Furthermore, another study identified religious leaders as key stakeholders in the HIV/AIDS fight, despite their role being limited by a lack of training, inadequate equipment, and facilitation to carry out HIV prevention programs. 22 This could be due to the similarity of the population and the context. The role of the religious leaders and key individuals in the group who may have influence can negatively impact on adherence to ART.…”

Comprehensive Assessment of Exclusive Breastfeeding: Insights into Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice among Lactating Mothers at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, Hoima District: A High-Impact Analysis

“…In light of the drawbacks of antiretroviral drugs, preventing HIV/AIDS spread is highly advocated. Recently, religious organizations have been reported to be of utmost importance in the dissemination of HIV/AIDS prevention protocols [20]. The role of religious organizations in the campaign against the HIV/AIDS scourge in SSA cannot be undermined due to their dignified societal status.…”