People with disabilities in Cabo Verde, an unresolved issue: HIV prevalence, knowledge, attitudes and practices

This article provides evidence about profile of persons with disabilities in Cabo Verde, their Knowledge, attitudes and practice and their bio-behavioural vulnerability to HIV/AIDS. The Cape verdian population was estimated to be 537,661 inhabitants in 2020, with an HIV prevalence of about 0.6% in the general population. Data were collected from 5 islands and 8 municipalities with a proportion of people with disabilities greater than or equal to 5%. A total of 682 persons participated in the study, and 653 People with Disabilities (PwDs) were tested for HIV. The HIV prevalence rate was 2.3% (3.5% in men; 1.7% in women), and the most prevalent type of virus is HIV1. Over 90% PwDs have access to information about HIV. Most of PwDs (85.8%) have had sex and known protection methods against HIV, although there are some misconceptions and beliefs. About 80.0% never participated in HIV/AIDS prevention activities, and 96.3% said that their participation gave them a better understanding about HIV and AIDS. About 79% were unaware of the existence of HIV care, support and prevention facilities, and 36.7% do not know of any place for HIV screening. This first study in Cabo Verde highlights the reality about PwDs social and environmental situation.