| dc.description.abstract | The study investigated the factors influencing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases among boda boda cyclists in Mbarara municipality, Mbarara District under objectives; to identify the factors influencing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases among boda boda cyclists, to find out the impact of sexually transmitted diseases on Boda boda cyclists, to identify the challenges met in fighting the spread of sexually transmitted diseases among boda boda cyclists and to suggest the possible ways of curbing down the spread of sexually transmitted diseases among boda boda cyclists in Mbarara. The research used a case study research design. The study population involved boda boda cyclists, boda boda leaders and the rest of the community members. A sample of 300 respondents was targeted to participate in the study. The researcher used purposive and simple random sampling in selecting respondents. The researcher questionnaires and interview guide for data collection. The study identified different factors leading to the spread of sexually transmitted diseases among boda boda cyclists in Mbarara municipality which include; poverty and financial limitations (p = .000), having multiple sexual relationships and cross generational sex in urban areas (p = .001), limited condom use among the cyclists (p = .000) and inadequate laws to create an environment for risk in urban areas (p = .000). The study also determined the impact of sexually transmitted diseases on Boda boda cyclists such as; leading to life threatening complications such as pain during or after urination, infertility in women, development of blisters around sexual organs, cancers, weakening of the immune system that result in chronic progressives that lead to death. The study identified major challenges met in fighting the spread of sexually transmitted diseases among boda boda cyclists such as; weak health systems, underfunding of STD prevention programmes, ever changing epidemiology of STDs and high levels of ignorance among boda boda cyclists among others. However, the study suggested the possible ways of curbing down the spread of sexually transmitted diseases among boda boda cyclists in Mbarara municipality such as; preaching abstinence and monogamy, beneficiaries’ involvement in prevention programs, promoting peer education, creating awareness among the affected group, encouraging cyclists to reduce sexual partners as well as emphasizing the use of use condoms. The researcher recommends that boda boda cyclists should be encouraged to reduce on the number of sex partners. Reducing on the number of sex partners can decrease the risk for STDs. It is still important that they get tested with their partners and share test results with one another. | en_US |
