Associated Factors of Awareness and Knowledge About HIV/AIDS Among Women of Reproductive Age in Somaliland: Insights From a Nationwide Survey

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) continues to be a major public health issue, particularly among women of reproductive age. This study was conducted to examine the factors that influence HIV awareness and knowledge among women in Somaliland. Methods: The data used in this study were obtained from the Somaliland Demographic and Health Survey conducted between 2019 and 2020, which included a representative sample of women aged 15-49 years. Descriptive statistics and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the connections between various sociodemographic factors and HIV awareness and knowledge among the women. Results: The investigation uncovered that the level of HIV awareness and knowledge among women in Somaliland was inadequate, with only a small percentage possessing accurate information about HIV transmission and prevention. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the education level (AOR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.23-2.03), age (AOR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.71-0.94), marital status (AOR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.09-1.61), and media exposure (AOR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.19-1.87) were significantly linked to higher levels of HIV awareness and knowledge among women. Conclusions: The research findings highlight the need for tailored interventions aimed at increasing HIV awareness and knowledge among women in Somaliland. To achieve this, it is essential to improve educational opportunities, conduct media campaigns, and eliminate cultural and socioeconomic obstacles that hinder the dissemination of precise information about HIV/AIDS. Collaboration between healthcare professionals, community leaders, and policymakers is vital for the development and implementation of successful interventions aimed at improving HIV awareness and knowledge among women in Somaliland.