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Religiosity for Promotion of Behaviors Likely to Reduce New HIV Infections in Uganda: A Study Among Muslim Youth in Wakiso District

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Abstract

The study was done to determine the association between religiosity and behaviors likely to reduce new HIV infections among 1,224 Muslim youth. Respondents with Sujda, the hyperpigmented spot on the forehead due to prostration during prayers, were more likely to abstain from sex, be faithful in marriage, and avoid alcohol and narcotics. Males wearing a Muslim cap were more likely to abstain from sex and avoid alcohol and narcotics. Females wearing the long dress (Hijab) were also more likely to avoid alcohol. This data should be used by stakeholders in promoting behaviors likely to reduce new HIV infections among Muslims.

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Acknowledgments

We are grateful to the communities in Wakiso district who participated in this study. We would also like to thank all the staff of Saidina Abubakar Islamic Hospital who participated in data collection, entry, and analysis for the study. The support given to us by Makerere University School of Public Health—CDC/HIV/AIDS Fellowship Program is very much appreciated.

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Correspondence to Magid Kagimu.

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Kagimu, M., Guwatudde, D., Rwabukwali, C. et al. Religiosity for Promotion of Behaviors Likely to Reduce New HIV Infections in Uganda: A Study Among Muslim Youth in Wakiso District. J Relig Health 52, 1211–1227 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-011-9563-8

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