Sexual Risk Behaviors and Associated Factors among Senior Secondary Schools Adolescents in Owerri, Imo State Nigeria

Background: The aetiology of sexual risk behaviors is multifactorial. Adequate information on the linkages and influences of these factors on sexual practices of adolescents could hypothetically inform strategies to stem consequential negative implications.

Objective: To determine sexual risk behaviors and associated factors among senior secondary schools adolescents in Owerri, Nigeria.

Subjects and Methods: An institution-based cross‑sectional descriptive study of sexual risk behaviors among 384 senior secondary schools adolescents in Owerri Municipal, selected using multistage sampling technique was done. Data were collected using pretested self- administered semi- structured questionnaires and were analysed using International Business Machine/ Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22 Statistical significance were identified with Chi‑square tests for proportions, at p values ≤ 0.05.

Results: The mean age was 16 ±0.5 years. The mean age at first sexual intercourse was 14 ±1.3 years; with a bimodal age at first intercourse (15 and 16 years). Out of 40 (74%) who ever had sexual intercourse, 31 (57.4%) reported multiple sexual partnerships, 34 (63%) of which reported use of contraceptives, mostly condoms 28(51.9%). The factors associated with sexual practices are; age (p=0.000), gender (p=0.000), nature of school (p=0.000), ownership (p=0.002), alcohol use (p=0.000) and residence of parents (p=0.005).

Conclusions: This study revealed a decreasing age at sexual initiation and a progressive increase in sexual activity with increasing age. Most of them indulged in sexual risk behaviors

We recommend formal comprehensive sex education programs targeted at delaying age at first sexual act and ensuring safe sexual practices among this age group.