Knowledge of HIV status and sexual and HIV risk behaviour in Botswana: does knowing one’s HIV status translate into reduced sexual and HIV risk behaviour? Evidence from the Botswana AIDS Impact Survey IV 2013

Gofaone Kgosidintsi, University of Botswana
Serai Daniel Rakgoasi, University of Botswana
Motsholathebe Bowelo, University of Botswana

This paper investigates the impact of knowledge of HIV status on sexual and HIV risk behaviors in Botswana. In early 2004, the government introduced a policy of routine HIV testing in which all patients are tested for HIV when they visit their doctor unless they opt out. A major aim of this approach to HIV testing, which was formally recommended in June 2004 by UNAIDS and the World Health Organization, was to increase uptake of HIV testing and treatment. This paper investigates the impact of knowledge of HIV status on respondent’s sexual and HIV risk behaviours in Botswana. It seeks to establish if individuals who know their HIV status have significantly different sexual and HIV risk behaviours and practices compared to those who do not know their status.