Prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus infection, risk behavior, and HIV knowledge among tuberculosis patients in Afghanistan.

Objectives/goal: To assess prevalence and correlates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, risk factors, and HIV knowledge among tuberculosis patients in Afghanistan.

Study Design: Adult participants undergoing treatment for tuberculosis in this cross-sectional study completed a questionnaire and HIV testing between November 2005 and February 2006. Prevalence of HIV and high-risk behaviors were calculated, with correlates of high-risk behavior and relevant knowledge assessed.

Results: Of 1163 participants, 2 (0.2%, 95% CI: 0.0-0.6) were HIV-infected. Known risk factors for HIV infection, such as paying women for sex or male to male sexual contact, were rarely reported, though receipt of injections from a nonmedical provider was common (38%). Symptoms suspicious for sexually transmitted infection were reported by 5% of the population and were significantly associated with young (<26 years) age (OR: 3.2, 95% CI: 1.7-6.0). Relatively, a few participants had ever heard of HIV (23%) or condoms (25%). Condom use was significantly more frequent among those 26 and older (OR: 2.9, 95% CI: 1.7-5.2) and among male participants (OR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.0-2.2).

Conclusions: HIV prevalence among tuberculosis patients in Afghanistan is currently quite low. However, lack of knowledge of HIV and engaging in high-risk practices, particularly regarding health, make this group vulnerable. Health education sessions regarding HIV, sexually transmitted infection, and blood-borne infections should be implemented for tuberculosis patients during the treatment course.