IHBSS 2007 Final Report
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Amid growing global concern over HIV/AIDS, there is an increasing need to implement programs to curb and prevent the spread of the disease in the country. This prompted the implementation of the Integrated HIV Behavioral and Serological Survey (IHBSS) which aimed to monitor HIV/AIDS data and gain more insights on the characteristics of the disease. To further improve and streamline its protocols, a review and evaluation of survey methods set in place for the IHBSS was performed. The evaluation of the IHBSS intended to conduct an analysis of the data sets generated from the survey. This entailed the application of statistical techniques to gain insights into the magnitude and behavior of HIV/AIDS in the country. Using these information, the survey methods used in the IHBSS were then ultimately examined if they were still informative and reflective of current data requirements. The study used the 2007 IHBSS dataset in order to validate the efficiency of the survey. Verification of data codes, consistency checks, and variable labelling were performed on the datasets to prepare them for analysis. Statistical tables and charts were then generated and analyzed. The study concluded that there is still a wide information gap regarding HIV/AIDS. While majority of respondents confirm that they have heard of HIV/AIDS, false ideas and misconceptions still clouded their knowledge on the disease. In addition, the study identified knowledge on partner’s sexual activities as a crucial factor in preventing HIV infection. Certain questions that would deepen understanding on such topics were recommended for inclusion in the next IHBSS rounds.
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