Risk behaviours associated with HIV and AIDS among couples in Rwamiko Sector, Gicumbi District, Rwanda

Background: Risk behaviours have been linked to the spread of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) epidemic in both urban and rural areas. Despite the progress made in the fight against HIV, it remains a public health concern worldwide. Risk behaviours such as not using condoms, having multiple sexual partners, and engaging in early sexual activity increase the risk of HIV infection. Therefore, it is important to assess these risk behaviours and understand the relationship between different factors and HIV, specifically among couples, in order to better understand the dynamics of the epidemic. The main objective of this study was to assess risk behaviours for HIV and AIDS among couples in Rwamiko sector, Gicumbi District, and suggest appropriate interventions for this group. Methods: This cross-sectional survey aimed to assess associated HIV and AIDS risk behaviours among couples in Rwamiko Sector, Gicumbi District, in order to determine the dynamics of the epidemic in this group and suggest appropriate interventions. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire and a multistage cluster random sampling technique. The collected data was then computed, analyzed, and presented in the form of tables and figures. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze all variables. Multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to investigate the relationship between the assessed factors, such as independent and dependent variables. The association between the studied factors was described using odds ratios with 95% CIs. Results: The majority of respondents were in the age group of 30–39 years. All respondents were married, and approximately 45% had completed primary education. The majority of respondents were unemployed. Respondents reported receiving HIV information from multiple sources, including radio, TV, films, school, church, health workers, parents, and friends. The findings of this study showed that some participants had knowledge about HIV transmission and prevention, while others did not. The proportion of respondents with a high level of HIV and AIDS knowledge was 30.61% (n = 60), while moderate knowledge accounted for 53.57% (n = 105). Furthermore, the proportion of respondents with a low level of knowledge on HIV and AIDS was 15.81% (n = 31). The attitude towards HIV and AIDS was positive for 58.16% (n = 114) of respondents, while 41.83% (n = 82) had a negative attitude. None of the respondents reported using injection drugs. Significant associations were found between age ( P -value = 0.002, odds ratio (OR) = 3.4, 95% CI = 1.59–7.67), gender (p=0.001, OR=2.6, 95% CI=1.44–4.68), and alcohol consumption. There was also an association between age ( P = 0.001, OR = 5.13, 95% CI = 2.04–12.91) and having multiple sexual partners. Conclusion: The majority of couples in Rwamiko Sector, Gicumbi District have a moderate level of knowledge and a positive attitude towards HIV and AIDS. However, the proportions of respondents with a low level of knowledge and a negative attitude should not be overlooked. The results of this study suggest the need to improve communication messages related to HIV, its transmission risks, and safer sexual behavior, particularly among couples in Rwamiko Sector, Gicumbi District.