Lagos State, Nigeria - Family Health International

In-Depth Assessment Report
9.8 Conclusion and Recommendation
Epe is a sexually active and well-informed community
with a high level of awareness of STIs and/AIDS. Condom
use is acceptable – at least in principle – and actually utilized
by sex workers. It is also apparent that the youths
are the main victims of unprotected sexual intercourse and
the most vulnerable to STIs, HIV/AIDS in the community.
Unlike sex workers, the youths engage in unprotected
(without the use of condom) sexual intercourse with adult
men with multiple partners for exchange of gifts, money
or other favours.
The literature has established and identified the most vulnerable
segment of a society to STIs, HIV/AIDS.
Although sex workers usually top the list, information
from Epe suggests that they may not present the real problem.
FSW seem to have accepted the reality of STIs and
HIV/AIDS and are very conscious of the dangers. These
women seem to know how to care for themselves and
take all known precautions to avoid infection. Perhaps
the real danger zone, the most vulnerable groups, are the
youths followed by men with multiple partners and petty
traders/low income women. These segments have something
in common: unprotected, chanced sexual intercourse.
As indicated, the youths are the worst. They have
the most sexual partners who cut across social categories
and indulge in indiscriminate and unprotected sexual
intercourse.
A thorough analysis of the youths’ sexual behaviours in
various communities is needed. What we have observed
in Epe is not likely to be different from any other community,
particularly in our society. We recommend that any
program on prevention and management of STIs,
HIV/AIDS should focus essentially on youth.
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