Risk factors for HIV/aids and tobacco use in adolescents

Abstract

The present descriptive correlational study has the purpose to determine the sexual risk factors that influence the transmission of HIV/AIDS and tobacco use in adolescents. The sample consisted of 119 students from an Educational Institution, selected through a non probalistic sample of intentional sampling who accepted to participate voluntarily. The instruments applied were a questionnaire ofsociodemographic data and prevalence of tobacco use, as well as the sexual uncertainty scale, HIV susceptibility scale and Jalowiec coping scale. The findings showed that 39.5% of adolescents had ever used tobacco. Among the sexual risk factors, men were found to have a higher level of sexual uncertainty and less perceived invulnerability to HIV. It is necessary to ensure that adolescents have the capacity to manage their sexual health and avoid addictions, through psychoeducational interventions.