Prevalence and determinants of sexual violence among adolescents in the city of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract

Background Sexual violence (SV) is a major public health concern, particularly among adolescents and young people. This study aims to determine the prevalence and associated factors of SV among individuals aged 15–24 in Kinshasa. Methods A secondary analysis was conducted using data from a 2016 survey led by the National Adolescent Health Program (PNSA), involving 1,675 participants. Structured questionnaires collected information on sociodemographic characteristics, SV awareness, and sexual health. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression were used to assess prevalence and associations. Results The lifetime prevalence of SV was 52.5%. Most perpetrators were neighbours (33.5%) or family members (9.0%). Non-disclosure was common, primarily due to shame (40.2%) and lack of awareness (34.5%), though the overall rate of underreporting was not quantified. Boys were less likely to experience SV than girls (odds ratio, OR = 0.621; 95% CI: 0.478–0.806; p = 0.001). Prior awareness of SV was protective (OR = 0.037; 95% CI: 0.005–0.280; p = 0.001). Conversely, adolescents with sexual experience (OR = 7.241; 95% CI: 3.569–10.945; p < 0.001), and those affiliated with Catholic (OR = 2.262; p = 0.031) or revivalist churches (OR = 2.084; p = 0.041), had higher odds of experiencing SV. Conclusions SV is widespread among youth in Kinshasa and often goes unreported. Strengthening awareness and improving access to information are essential to protect adolescents and guide future interventions.