Factors Associated with HIV Infection among Women of Reproductive Age (15-49) in Ngoma District of Rwanda, a Secondary Data Analysis of Rwanda Demographic Health Surveys 2019-2020

Abstract: Background: Despite Rwanda's commendable progress in reducing the national HIV burden, women aged 15–49 continue to bear a disproportionate share of infections, especially in Ngoma district. Located near Kigali and characterized by distinct socio-economic dynamics, Ngoma faces unique challenges in HIV prevalence and transmission. While national surveys provide general trends, understanding localized factors is essential for tailoring effective interventions. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of HIV and identify associated risk factors among women of reproductive age in Ngoma district, Rwanda. Methodology: A cross-sectional quantitative study was employed, using data from the Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey (RDHS) 2019/2020. The study population included women of reproductive age (15–49 years) residing in Ngoma district. Data were analyzed to explore socio-demographic characteristics, access to healthcare, and cultural influences. Descriptive statistics were used to determine HIV prevalence. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess associations between HIV infection and explanatory variables. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: The overall prevalence of HIV among women in Ngoma district was 7.87%. Multivariate analysis showed that women aged 25–34 years (AOR = 15.784; 95% CI: 4.882–51.033), 35–44 years (AOR = 11.303; 95% CI: 2.654–48.140), and 45–49 years (AOR = 6.648; 95% CI: 1.373–32.178) were significantly more likely to be HIV positive compared to those aged 15–24 years. Employment status was protective: employed women were 97% less likely to be HIV positive (AOR = 0.033; 95% CI: 0.569–0.902). Similarly, women who had never been in a union (AOR = 0.137; 95% CI: 0.635–0.972) and those without a mobile phone (AOR = 0.242; 95% CI: 0.144–0.406) had significantly lower odds of HIV infection compared to their respective counterparts. Conclusion: This study highlights a notably high HIV prevalence among women aged 25–49 years in Ngoma district. Key factors associated with increased HIV risk include older age, marital status, mobile phone ownership, and unemployment. Targeted HIV prevention strategies should prioritize older, married women, especially those who own mobile phones. Addressing underlying socio-economic determinants, such as enhancing employment opportunities and equitable access to communication tools, is also critical to reducing HIV transmission in this high-risk population. Keywords: (MeSH): Factors Associated, HIV Infection, Reproductive age, Secondary data analysis. Title: Factors Associated with HIV Infection among Women of Reproductive Age (15-49) in Ngoma District of Rwanda, a Secondary Data Analysis of Rwanda Demographic Health Surveys 2019-2020 Author: Ms. Alice Wirira, Dr. Amanuel Kidane Andegiogish International Journal of Healthcare Sciences ISSN 2348-5728 (Online) Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025 Page No: 601-609 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 22-August-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16926577 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/factors-associated-with-hiv-infection-among-women-of-reproductive-age-15-49-in-ngoma-district-of-rwanda-a-secondary-data-analysis-of-rwanda-demographic-health-surveys-2019-2020