Paediatric HIV/AIDS and Awareness of Victims’ Plight in Enugu Metropolis, Enugu State, Nigeria

A Medical Sociology Perspective

Abstract

Paediatric HIV/AIDS remains a critical public health and social concern in sub-Saharan Africa, with children facing unique challenges due to stigma, neglect, and limited access to healthcare. This study examined awareness of the plight of children living with HIV/AIDS (CLWHA) in Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria, adopting a medical sociology perspective. Using a survey design, 613 respondents were selected through multi-stage cluster sampling, complemented by 10 in-depth interviews with healthcare personnel. Data were analyzed using frequency tables, percentages, and chi-square tests at a 0.05 significance level. Results indicate that awareness of CLWHA challenges is generally low, with peer-group stigma, neglect, and inaccessibility of antiretroviral therapy as primary issues. Respondents highlighted public enlightenment, creation of more HIV/AIDS care centers, free medical treatment, and counseling as essential interventions. The study recommends establishing a government agency to oversee CLWHA welfare, strengthening community sensitization, and improving access to antiretroviral drugs to enhance child wellbeing and social inclusion.