The sexual behaviours among long-distance truck drivers and the spread of HIV/AIDS in Tanzania: A Case of Bwilingu and Pera Wards in Chalinze District Council

Abstract

Driving long hours increases the risk of contracting HIV among truck drivers. This study examines the sexual behaviour among long-distance truck drivers and the spread of HIV/AIDS. Specifically, the study identified factors influencing sexual behaviour, assessed challenges associated with behavioural change and established prevention measures towards the spread of HIV/AIDS. The study was conducted in Chalinze district council. A mixed-method design was used, whereby quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection were employed. Semi-structured questionnaires were employed to collect quantitative data, while a checklist guiding tool was used to collect qualitative data; six (6) in-depth interviews were conducted with the key informants. The collected quantitative data were analysed through SPSS programme, while qualitative data were transcribed; hence, themes were developed via content analysis. Key themes developed were sexual behaviours, challenges and prevention measures. Identified sexual behaviours include alcohol influence by 45(25%), multiple sexual partners by 41(25%), unprotected sex by 36(20%), unfaithful relationship by 29(16%), limited access of health services 17(9%), lack of regular HIV/AIDS testing by 8(4%) and precautions use negligence by 5(3%). Challenges include frequent mobility, substance abuse, peer influence, stigmatisation and discrimination, working culture, and rigidity to behavioural change. Prevention measures include faithful relationships, use of precautions, avoidance of alcohol, access to HIV/AIDS testing, provision of peer education training, abstinence and a single sexual partner. Study findings inform policymakers as they recommend the following faithful relationships, abstinence, use of precautions, avoidance of alcohol influence, a small number of sexual partners, and peer education training would eventually minimise the detrimental effects of HIV/AIDS.