Sexually Transmitted Diseases: dilemma facing the youth in Kwa-Mbonambi District, in KwaZulu-Natal
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Date
2008
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Abstract
This study is about the dilemma of sexually transmitted diseases in the youth of kwaMbonambi District in KwaZulu-Natal. In this community most of the youth are dying as a result of sexually transmitted disease. Even though prevention measures have been implemented on a nation wide basis, but it seems as if it does not reach the youth effectively. This study examines the knowledge the youth have about sexually transmitted diseases and prevention measures as well as barriers that might hinder them from taking prevention measures. It also examines the ignorance of the youth in cot taking early treatment of disease that might contribute to the manifestation of HIV.
It is not surprising that some youth with sexually transmitted diseases avoid checkups. Many symptoms of the disease go away by themselves, but the disease does not. One could transmit the disease without having symptoms. The disease may cause severe long-term consequences. According to research findings, the youth know the ways through which persons become infected by sexually transmitted disease. However, the majority of the active youth that have participated in this research project still engage in unprotected sexual intercourse that puts them at risk of infection with HIV.
Condoms have been recommended as one effective method of preventing the transmission of STDs. According to the researcher, condoms are more likely to be used if the peer support the use of condoms and if individuals perceive the benefits of the use of condoms and that outweighs their costs. Education about STD's and AIDS transmission and their prevention, along with training skills in negotiating that should place the youth in responsible sexual behavior. Public health effort must also focus on helping the youth not to contract STDs and to volunteer for AIDS testing.
Description
A dissertation submitted for partial fulfillment of the requirements for the
Masters degree in Community Work, in the Department of Social Work at
University of Zululand, 2008.
Keywords
Sexually Transmitted Diseases