Misconceptions, Folk Beliefs, Denial Hinder Risk Perception among Young Zambian Men

This study of young Zambian males revealed that their risk perception of sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS was low due to misconceptions, folk beliefs and denial, which impeded personal risk assessment and interfered with the adoption of safer sexual behavior.

Although the study's participants demonstrated a wide range of knowledge about the disease, they often mixed correct information with misconceptions, the study found. Folk explanations linking HIV infection to the strength of individuals' blood, menstruation or sorcery were common.

The study states “Zambia is one of the nine African countries hardest hit by the AIDS epidemic, where over 21% of 15- to 49-year-olds are HIV positive. While condom use is increasing, consistent use remains low. The frequency of STIs, which can increase the transmission of HIV, is disproportionately high among Zambian youth. In some parts of the country, up to half the youth population is positive for herpes simplex virus. “

The research suggests a decline in HIV/AIDS prevalence among youth and educated Zambians, while a less dramatic decline is shown amongst the poor and less educated groups. Overall, the importance of consistent condom use with all sexual partners was not recognised by the respondents.