HIV prevention in Tanzania: the role of types of sexual partnerships, early sexual histories and community factors

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Nature of proposed researchHIV prevention among young people is an urgent priority. Research has shown that prevention interventions such as sex education in schools can increase knowledge about HIV and sexual and reproductive health. However, such interventions have not been able to reduce the number of young people infected with HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STI). There is a gap between knowledge of how to avoid HIV and other sexual risks among young people and actual behaviour change. We need to find effective ways to prevent HIV among young people in sub-Saharan Africa.This research will use data collected during a recent survey of over 13,000 young people in rural Tanzania. Young people told us who they have sex with and described the type of relationship with each of their recent sexual partners. We can make a map to see if young people infected with HIV live in certain areas eg near to a major road or town. Analysing this information will help us to understand where and when a young person is most likely to take risks. The results of this research will be used to design interventions that will help young people to reduce their risk of being infected.