Obiako OR, Muktar HM, Sheikh TL, Mamman AI, EE Anyebe, CO Obiako, Relationship Between Awareness of HIV/AIDS and Attitudes of Secondary School Students to Premarital HIV Counseling and Testing in Zaria, Northern Nigeria, Journal of Clinical Research In HIV AIDS And Prevention, Volume 1, Issue 3, 2013, Pages 29-38, ISSN 2324-7339, https://doi.org/10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-227.
(https://oap-researcharticles.org/jcrhap/article/58)
Abstract: Background: In Nigeria HIV infection is transmitted mainly through heterosexual route, affecting mostly individuals within reproductive age groups. As a result, HIV/AIDS education is advocated as a strong component of family and reproductive health education in the school curriculum which should emphasize responsible sexual behavior, premarital chastity and protective sexual practice. Aims/ Objectives: To evaluate student’s knowledge of HIV/AIDS, premarital HCT, and reactions to possible discordant HCT results. Methods: Cross sectional questionnaire-based study of 600 students in 6 schools in Zaria/Sabon Gari LGAs. Exclusion criteria: students aged ≤13 years, married, in JSS 1-3, SS1. Results: 550 students completed questionnaire (92% response rate). 54.5% females (ᾱ age =17.5 ±2.7 years) versus 45.5% males (16.5 ±2.7 years), Muslims (53%) and Christians (47%) respectively. 76%, 57%, and 38% knew the meaning of AIDS, HIV and VCT respectively; while all knew both the routes of HIV transmission and preventive measures. More than two-third supported voluntary, free and self initiated premarital HCT, preferably in a private and confidential setting. None would marry a discordant HIV positive partner, while 61% would marry themselves if both have positive HIV results. Conclusion: Many students would shun marriage with discordant HIV+ partner. 
Keywords: Pre-marital; HIV Counseling and testing; attitudes; students; Zaria