Assessing high-risk sexual practices associated with human immunodeficiency virus infection among young female sex workers in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo: a cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: Young female sex workers (YFSWs) face a higher risk of HIV infection compared to older workers, but there is a lack of comprehensive data on their sexual practices and HIV infection risks, which may present unique challenges and vulnerabilities. The study aimed to identify high-risk sexual practices associated with HIV infection among YFSWs in Lubumbashi. METHODS: We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study and used a comprehensive sample of all YFSWs who presented to the HIV/Sexually Transmitted Infections Screening and Treatment Center in Lubumbashi between April 2016 and December 2017. We collected data on socio-demographic characteristics and behavioral risk factors of female sex workers were collected using a structured questionnaire. Using STATA version 16, multivariate logistic regression was fitted and the results were presented as adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with their 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). RESULTS: A total of 572 YFSWs were included in the study, 19 of whom were HIV-positive (3.3%; 95% CI: 2.1-5.1%). Participants who were forced to have sex (aOR = 12.2; 95% CI: 3.2-46.4; p < 0.0001), those who did not use condoms systematically (aOR = 4.1; 95% CI: 1.3-13.0; p = 0.018), and those who had anal sex (aOR = 23.8; 95% CI: 6.9-82.4; p < 0.0001) were more likely to be HIV-positive. CONCLUSION: The study reveals a concerning trend of higher hospital HIV prevalence among YFSWs compared to the general Congolese population. It also highlights a significant link between high-risk sexual practices and HIV infection, highlighting the need for urgent interventions.

[Chronic kidney disease: associated factors, etiologies, clinical and biological parameters at Lubumbashi city in Democratic Republic of Congo]. / Maladie rénale chronique: facteurs associés, étiologies, caractéristiques clinique et biologique à Lubumbashi en République Démocratique du Congo.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease is fast becoming a worldwide public health problem due to the increase of hypertension and diabetes mellitus, its main risk factors. In countries like DRC where majority of population are in the low income bracket, very few studies about this disease, usually diagnosed at a very advanced stage have been conducted. As a result of such, cases are not always properly taken care of and managed. METHODS: We opted for a descriptive cross-sectional study and it was conducted during the period from July 2014 to July 2015 at CMDC dialysis service. Were included all patients with glomerular filtration rate lower than 60ml / min / 1,73 m2 or high level of creatinine longer than three months during the study period Goal. This study aims at describing the sociodemographic characteristics, risk factors and biological parameters of patients admitted for kidney failure. RESULTS: We selected 60 patients. The average age was 51, 38 + / _ 13, 47 with the most affected included age group between 50-59 years. 51, 67% had completed secondary education and 40% higher. Risk factors of renal damage were the HTA 66, 64%, 25% diabetes mellitus, use of nephrotoxic products 35%, HIV infection 11, 67%, 10% obesity, sickle cell disease 3, 3%. The birth weight birth of our patients as well as existing renal disease in family were unknown factors. 85% of our patients had hemoglobin levels below 12 g%. CONCLUSION: From this observation, it appears that the age of our patients did not differ from that observed in other low-income communities. The level of education of our patients is higher compared to other studies. It would be better to develop strategies for early detection of kidney disease to avoid ending hemodialysis remains a very expensive treatment.