HIV-Infections in Male Youths: Risks Associated with Alcohol Misuse

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to explore the influence of alcohol misuse in HIV-infection at the Health and Welfare Organisation in South Africa. There is an association between alcohol misuse and HIV transmission. Male youths may lack understanding of the effects of alcohol on their sexual behavior when under the influence of alcohol. This makes male youths vulnerable to HIV infection. Qualitative methodology was used for an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon under investigation. The findings indicate that many male youths are aware of HIV-preventative methods, but their behavior is not always in line with what they know. Therefore, we recommend that male youths should be taught about the risk of HIV infection associated with alcohol misuse in various places such as schools and taverns. HIV/AIDS education should emphasize practical intervention strategies. Condom use should not be neglected in favor of newer preventative strategies such as male circumcision and pre-exposure prophylaxis.