Abstract

As Uganda continues with the fight to end HIV epidemic by 2030, increasing condom use,
especially in high-risk sexual encounters is one of the key strategies for reducing HIV
transmission in Uganda. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, practices and factors
affecting the utilization of condoms in the prevention of HIV among youths in Lira District.
The study adopted a cross-sectional study design employing quantitative methods. A total
of 189 respondents aged 15-35 years were recruited using a systematic random sampling
technique. Data was obtained using an interviewer administered questionnaire and analysed
using SPSS version 2.0. Descriptive analysis was used to generate frequencies and
percentages. The measure and significance of association were determined using a Chisquare
test and odds ratios with a P-value set at 0.05 corresponding to 95% confidence
interval. Linear logistic regression analysis was used to generate Crude and Adjusted odds
ratios to determine the factors associated with condom use among youths in HIV prevention.
The results showed that 48% had ever used condoms. Majority had knowledge of condom
use. Over 120(63.49%) were very knowledgeable, 28(14.82%) moderately knowledgeable while
the rest 41(21.69%) were less knowledgeable. Likewise, over three quarters 71(78.02%)
reported good condom use practices. Marital status (p=0.002), education (p=0.012),
relationship status (p=0.019), number of sexual partners (p=0.011) and knowledge about
condom use (p=0.018) were significant predictors of condom use in HIV prevention. Only
marital status was independently associated with condom use after adjusting for possible
cofounders. Although the study reveals relatively good knowledge and condom use practices,
there is still some level of less knowledge and poor practices which may be driving the high
prevalence of not using condoms among youths in HIV prevention. Reproductive health
education programs targeting married, less educated, and youths in more than a single relationship should be tightened so as to increase condom use knowledge and eventually utilization in the fight against HIV