SOCIO-CULTURAL PRACTICES THAT MAY FAVOUR THE TRANSMISSION OF HIV IN A RURAL TIV COMMUNITY IN BENUE STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

Acquired Immune deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is now a global Public health problem. In Nigeria, despite the high prevalence rate of the disease consistently reported in the Tiv speaking area of North Central Nigeria, scant information exists on the socio- cultural practices which carry potential risks for transmission of the virus in the area. The objectives of the study are to identify socio - cultural practices that carry potential risks for transmitting HIV/AIDS in Ihugh„ a rural Tiv community in Benue State. This is a descriptive exploratory study involving qualitative data collection in lhugh from July to September 2003. A total of 17 in depth interviews were conducted on opinion leaders and others with specialized knowledge on blood contact, marriage and divorce practices. Participant observation of traditional healers who perform scarifications and of female commercial sex workers was made. Review was also made of records of divorce cases at the Ihugh upper area court in the six years preceding this study (1997-2002). Also, 16 focus group discussions were held comprising 5 with bachelors, 4 each with married males and spinsters and 3 with married females. Result from interview showed that polygyny is a common practice necessitated by the need for many women to assist on the farm and desire for a large family size. Also, elopement as a marriage process is an acceptable practice. Results from observation and interview showed that there are 15 female commercial sex workers in Ihugh from different parts of the country who we patronized by indigenes, non indigenes, and traders residing in the community and those from long distance places who come to attend the weekly Ihugh market. Thirteen of the commercial sex workers had previously sold sex in other parts of the country before coming to Ihugh. Causal sexual intercourse without the use of condom is common during festive periods of Christmas, new- year and funeral ceremonies, which is further facilitated by the use of alcohol. Result from observation also showed that traditional healing practices involving use of skin piercing instrument were performed under non-protective conditions that favour blood contact between the patient and the operator. Cases or marital separation are higher than that of divorce. Review of records indicated that a total of 52 divorce cases were determined between 1997 and 2002 at the Ihugh area court. Women initiated most of the cases. Non- performance of sexual function by husbands (32.7%) and lack of care (26.9%) were the major reasons cited for divorce. Based on findings, it is recommended that a culturally relevant health education intervention promoting the use of condom during casual sex, use of hand gloves by traditional healers should be encourages. The practice of elopement and use of alcohol during funeral ceremonies should be discouraged.