HIV survey in Mozambique: analysis with simultaneous model in contrast to separate hierarchical models

BACKGROUND: The analysis of correlated responses obtained one at a time in survey data is not as informative or as useful as modeling them simultaneously. Simultaneous modeling allows for the opportunity to evaluate the system in a more pragmatic form rather than to allow for responses that assumedly originated in isolation. METHODS: This research uses the Mozambique National Survey data to demonstrate the benefits of simultaneous modeling on blood test results, knowledge of HIV/AIDS, and awareness of an HIV/AIDS campaign. This simultaneous modeling also addresses the correlation inherent due to the hierarchical structure in the data collection. RESULTS: Employment and self-perceived risk of HIV/AIDS have different impact on blood test, awareness of an HIV/AIDS campaign, and knowledge of HIV/AIDS when examined simultaneously as opposed to separate modeling. CONCLUSION: Simultaneous modeling of correlated responses improves the reliability of the estimates. More importantly, it provides an opportunity to engage in cost-saving decisions when designing future surveys and make better health policies.