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Factors affecting the uptake of voluntary counselling and testing among youth in rural Nigeria
(Lethbridge, Alta : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Health Sciences, 2017) Jones, Olakunle Olugbenga; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Health Sciences; Harrowing, Jean N.
The number of AIDS-related deaths in Nigeria is a public health concern. Voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) has been shown to be a critical gateway in reducing the disease mortality. However, the benefits of VCT is yet to be effectively optimized, especially in the Global South. The purpose of this study was to explore the factors affecting the uptake of VCT among youth in rural Nigeria. Naturalistic inquiry was used to gather qualitative data from ten rural youth in southwestern Nigeria. An overarching theme was developed: (Dis)Approving Voices. Major themes included: External Voices, Internal Voices, and Voices of Acceptance. The results revealed there are barriers, such as stigma and low levels of awareness, to testing among youth in rural communities. Furthermore, the participants shared the need for more acceptance of VCT users and HIV patients. The implications of the research findings for future policy development are discussed.