Risky Sexual Behavior and Associated Factors among High School and Preparatory School Students in Yaedwha, East Gojjam, Ethiopia, 2019.

Abstract Background: Sexual and reproductive health problems are among the main causes of death, disability, and disease among young people in the world particularly in Africa. Young adults represent one of the groups at highest risk for HIV infection. Safe sexual behavior remains the most effective protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) for sexually active young adults.Objective: To assess the risk of sexual behaviors and associated factors among high school and preparatory school students in Yaedwha town, East Gojjam, Ethiopia, 2019.Methods: Institution based cross-sectional study design with qualitative support was conducted among high school and preparatory school students from March 18-22, 2019. Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire from 435 students using Stratified sampling technique. Focus group discussions were used to supplement quantitative data. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 :statistical software. Binary and multiple logistic regression analysis was used to ascertain the association between explanatory variables and the outcome. Variables with P value less than 0.25 in the bivariate analysis and P-value < 0.05 and corresponding 95% CI of odds ratio were considered to declare a result as statistically significant. Analysis of information obtained from FGDs was done manually using themes. Results: The overall risk sexual behaviors among sexually active students in the last 12 months were 25.8%. The variables, peer pressure, alcohol use, living arrangement and educational level statistically significant with p values< 0.05 [AOR=2.540(1.59, 4.05)], [AOR= 2.87(1.56, 5.28))], [AOR=2.29(1.41, 3.69] and [AOR=1.68(1.02, 2.77)] respectively,Conclusion: Considerable number of students had practiced risk sexual behaviors. The associated factors of risky sexual behaviors among students were peer pressure, alcohol use, educational status, and current living conditions were the most influencing factors for risky sexual behaviors . So school-based reproductive health interventions are mandatory to prevent risky sexual behaviors, negotiate condom use, youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services. Keywords: Risk Sexual Behaviors, Associated factors, Students, Yaedwha, Ethiopia.