HIV/AIDS related knowledge and perceived risk associated with condom use among adolescents in Uganda

While considerable attention has been paid to sexual behaviors among HIV high-risk populations in Africa, few studies have looked at the adolescent population. Using data from the 2004 National Survey of Adolescents in Uganda, logistic regression models were fitted to examine the odds that HIV/AIDS related knowledge and perceived risk of HIV infection are associated with condom use among adolescents. After including demographic measures, findings indicated that correct knowledge of condom use, as well as positive attitudes towards the use of condoms are associated with the likelihood that adolescents used condoms. Self assessment of the risk of HIV infection was not predictive of condom use, nor was knowing someone with AIDS. These findings further emphasize the need to encourage condom use and help protect adolescents at risk of HIV infection.