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Predictors of HIV knowledge and testing among female adolescents and emerging adults in Tajikistan

ABSTRACT Over the past decade, incidence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has increased significantly in Tajikistan, with female adolescents and emerging adults (i.e., 15–24 years old) particularly vulnerable for acquiring HIV. This study sought to examine whether HIV knowledge and HIV testing among female youth in Tajikistan have increased between 2012 and 2017 using national data from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS). In addition, predictors of HIV knowledge and testing were examined. Results suggest that between 2012 and 2017, self-reported HIV testing prevalence increased from 10% to 15% among female adolescents and emerging adults. In addition, HIV knowledge increased significantly among female youth from 2012 to 2017; however, many respondents still displayed limited knowledge about the modes of HIV transmission and effective prevention methods. In order to reduce incidence of HIV among youth in Tajikistan, greater efforts are needed to engage women in education and prevention efforts, as well as to understand the unique vulnerabilities that place some subgroups at increased risk for infection.