Utilization of HIV Care Services among Adolescents in the Comprehensive Care Center in Kenya

Kennedy Anori Genga, Rebecca Suubi, Kevin Nwanna, David Ikwuka, & Joan Nakirya
Nexus International University, Kampala, Uganda
Email: gengakennedy@gmail.com

Abstract: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a major public health concern among adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa, where unique social and structural barriers hinder effective engagement in care. This study examined factors influencing the utilization of HIV care services among adolescents attending the Comprehensive Care Center (CCC) at Ahero Sub-County Referral Hospital, Kenya. Specifically, it analyzed socio-demographic and economic determinants, assessed knowledge and awareness of HIV services, and proposed strategies to enhance uptake. A mixed-methods design was employed, with the quantitative component consisting of surveys administered to 264 adolescents aged 10–19 years, whose sample size was determined using the Fisher et al. (1998) formula. In addition, a smaller subset of participants and key informants participated in qualitative interviews to complement and contextualize the quantitative findings. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS. Results showed that 58% of participants were female, with a mean age of 15 years. Most (86%) obtained HIV-related information from hospitals, while only 10% relied on family members. Despite service availability, low awareness, stigma, and long distances to care facilities contributed to underutilization. The study underscores the need for adolescent-centered interventions, including tailored health education, stigma reduction, and expansion of community-based HIV care models. Enhanced media engagement and family involvement are also recommended to improve awareness and service uptake. Addressing these barriers is critical to improving adolescent health outcomes and achieving the global target of ending AIDS by 2030.