press releases

U.S. Ambassador And Minister Of Health Officiate At The Dissemination Of The 2005 Zambia Sexual Behavior Survey Results

Lusaka
April 18, 2006

United States Ambassador to Zambia, Carmen Martinez and Minister of Health, Honorable, Sylvia Masebo, on April 18 officiated at the dissemination of the 2005 Zambia Sexual Behavior Survey (ZSBS), the fourth in a series of nationwide surveys conducted in Zambia on knowledge, attitudes, and behavior related to HIV and AIDS.

The “2005 Zambia Sexual Behavior Survey Report” was funded from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. As part of the development assistance program between the U.S. and Zambian governments, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Zambia commissioned the 2005 survey and three other previous Zambia Sexual Behavior Surveys in 1998, 2000, and 2003.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Martinez stated: “The findings from this important survey provide an opportunity for each of us to reflect on our own behavior and to plan for the future.” According to the 2005 ZSBS report, in general, knowledge about AIDS and the virus that causes it is high, but misconceptions about how HIV is transmitted still persist. Some people still wrongly believe that HIV can be transmitted through mosquitoes, sharing a meal, or through witchcraft. Yet, the vast majority of Zambians have heard of HIV/AIDS, and most know that HIV can be avoided. Knowledge of the ABCs of HIV prevention is fairly widespread. People are aware that abstinence, being faithful to one partner, and correct and consistent condom use all prevent the spread of HIV.

Most people know where to go for an HIV test. However, only 13 percent of Zambians have ever been tested for HIV. This is an increase, up from eight percent in 2003 but the percentage is still very low. Among pregnant women, only eight percent of rural women and 36 percent of women living in urban areas reported being tested during antenatal care. The ZSBS data indicate very little change in risky behavior. Of particular concern is the indication that condom use among those with a non-regular partner is, in fact, declining. Most encouraging in the survey is the finding that young people aged 15-24 years on the average are waiting two more years until they are 18.5 years to initiate sex. Also, more young people are practicing abstinence. The survey also provided information about orphans and vulnerable children. As the number and proportion of children orphaned is growing, many households caring for these children are struggling to provide even basic needs.
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