A discrete time hazard model of age at first sex among youth in Edo State, Nigeria

Using the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Self Efficacy and Skills (IMB) model and applying discrete time hazard techniques, this study examines the correlates of age of first sexual intercourse for rural youth aged 11-17 enrolled in junior secondary schools in Edo State, Nigeria. Results indicate strong significant relationships between components of the IMB model and age at first sex for boys and girls, in particular for boys. Perceiving one’s self at risk of contracting HIV from sex delays the timing at first sex while experiencing pressure from others to engage in sex hastens the timing for boys and girls. Boys with knowledge about HIV have lower risks of experiencing first sexual intercourse earlier, but those who endorse more myths about the disease have higher risks. Boys who thought they could not abstain from sex had earlier first sex. Boys and girls with high condom use self-efficacy also had earlier timing to first sex. Policy makers are encouraged to improve knowledge about HIV/AIDS while emphasizing sexual abstinence as an important strategy to reducing the spread of HIV among rural youth in Edo state, Nigeria.