Document 2384
 DOCN  M94A2384
 TI    The sexual practice among in-laws as a function of HIV transmission: the
       case of widows in Tanzania.
 DT    9412
 AU    Jonathan V; Medical Aid Foundation, Dar es Salaam.
 SO    Int Conf AIDS. 1994 Aug 7-12;10(1):316 (abstract no. PC0194). Unique
       Identifier : AIDSLINE ICA10/94370191
 AB    OBJECTIVES: To inquire whether sexual practice among in-laws contributed
       to fast HIV/AIDS transmission leading to massive deaths in a rural
       population of Kagera, Tanzania and to establish the reasons that force
       widows to such a practice. To examine alternative approaches for
       eliminating such practices. METHODS: In the course of 6 years 4,000
       widows between 18-38 years of age were interviewed on the
       following:--date and cause of death of husband; number of
       brothers-in-law left by the deceased and how many were alive at the time
       of interview; heir/guardian of property/family of the deceased; whether
       the widow and guardian established sexual relationship; whether this
       practice is liked/disliked by the interviewed widows;
       advantages/disadvantages of this practice and what could be done to
       bring changes in this society; whether widows are knowledgeable on how
       HIV is transmitted and dangers of AIDS. RESULTS: 90% of the interviewed
       revealed that their husbands died because of AIDS. 95% admitted to have
       sexual partners. 65% had sexual relationships with in-laws. 85% disliked
       the practice but were dragged into it by cultural factors. 3% inherited
       deceased's property & 97% were denied this right. CONCLUSION: Cultural
       sexual practice accelerated HIV transmission though widows dislike the
       practice. Findings of this research suggest practical approaches to
       bring changes in this society.
 DE    Adolescence  Adult  *Cultural Characteristics  Female  Human  HIV
       Infections/*TRANSMISSION  Male  *Sex Behavior  Tanzania  *Widowhood
       MEETING ABSTRACT

       SOURCE: National Library of Medicine.  NOTICE: This material may be
       protected by Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.Code).