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Assessment of HIV/AIDS Risk Behaviors among Secondary School Students in Adamawa State Isaac John Umaru; Solomon O. Asare; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Inemesit Samuel Essien; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Usenobong Morgan Akpan; Julius Ishaya Salman; Kwabena Owusu Amoah; Evelyn Ovenomo Tony-Enwin; Hauwa A. Umaru; Maryam Usman Ahmed
African Multidisciplinary Journal of Sciences and Artificial Intelligence Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Multidisciplinary Journal of Sciences and Artificial Intelligence
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/amjsai.v3i1.9303

Abstract

Adolescents in Nigeria are increasingly exposed to HIV/AIDS risk behaviors due to socio-economic challenges, peer influence, and limited access to sexual health education, with secondary school students in Adamawa State particularly vulnerable to early sexual debut, multiple sexual partnerships, and inconsistent condom use. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of HIV/AIDS risk behaviors among secondary school students in Adamawa State, examine the socio-demographic factors associated with these behaviors, and evaluate students’ knowledge and perceptions of HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention. A cross-sectional survey design was employed involving 300 secondary school students selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, sexual behavior, substance use, and HIV/AIDS knowledge, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. The findings showed that 30% of students experienced peer pressure to engage in sex, 28% had already had sexual intercourse, 19% reported multiple sexual partners, 18.3% admitted inconsistent condom use, 14% used substances before sex, and 12% engaged in transactional sex. Knowledge gaps were also evident, as only 70% recognized condom use as a preventive measure and 25% incorrectly believed that HIV is curable. Socio-demographic factors, including age (18–19 years), male gender, senior class level, and single-parent family structure, were significantly associated with risky sexual behavior (p < .05). These findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive sexual education, peer mentorship programs, and improved access to sexual health resources in secondary schools. The study contributes contextual evidence on adolescent HIV vulnerability in Adamawa State and highlights the importance of addressing socio-demographic risk factors and misconceptions about HIV/AIDS to reduce risky behaviors and promote adolescent health.
Smoking Behaviors and Perceived Health Risks Among Out-of-School Youth in Tella, Taraba State Isaac John Umaru; Solomon O. Asare; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Inemesit Samuel Essien; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Genevieve A. Yeboah; Julius Ishaya Salman; Kwabena Owusu Amoah; Precious Chioma Jack; Hauwa A. Umaru; Maayam Usman Ahmed
African Multidisciplinary Journal of Sciences and Artificial Intelligence Vol 3 No 2 (2026): African Multidisciplinary Journal of Sciences and Artificial Intelligence
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/amjsai.v3i2.9472

Abstract

Tobacco use among adolescents remains a significant public health concern, particularly among out-of-school youth who often have limited access to formal health education and support systems. In response to anecdotal indications of increasing smoking behavior in Tella, this study aimed to assess the prevalence, patterns, and determinants of smoking among out-of-school youth, examine their perceptions of smoking-related health risks, and identify the socio-cultural and economic factors associated with tobacco use. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted using structured questionnaires administered to a purposive sample of out-of-school youth aged 13–24 years, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and presented in tabular form. The findings showed that 58% of respondents were current tobacco users, with cigarettes as the most commonly used product (60%), while 40% reported initiating smoking before the age of 15. Although 70% acknowledged that smoking is harmful, only 35% could identify specific smoking-related diseases, and 45% believed that occasional smoking was not harmful. Peer pressure (60%) and stress related to unemployment (50%) emerged as the most frequently cited reasons for smoking. The respondent profile further indicated that most participants were male (65%), aged 17–21 years (58%), and characterized by high levels of unemployment (42%) and informal labor participation (30%). The study concludes that out-of-school youth in Tella are highly vulnerable to tobacco use due to the combined effects of limited education, economic hardship, peer influence, and cultural norms. These findings highlight the need for integrated interventions that combine health education, peer-based support, economic empowerment, and policy enforcement to reduce tobacco use and promote healthier lifestyles among this at-risk population.