communicating hiv prevention
TRANSCRIPT
BackgroundEvidence from epidemiological studies has shown the importance of multiple and concurrent sexual partnerships (MCP) as a driver of the HIV epidemic in Southern and Eastern Africa. At the same time medical male circumcision (MC) has been identified as a key new tool in the prevention of HIV transmission. As a result there are currently a range of behaviour change communication interventions implemented across these regions.
ObjectivesThe study aimed to assess the extent to which the current interventions on MCP and MC:
MethodologyResearch was conducted in 2009 and 2010. Data was collected from the capital city and one district in each country through: Interviews with policy makers Focus group discussions with communities Review of existing documents/reports on MC and MCP
Lessons Learned While individuals’ attitudes towards both medical male
circumcision and concurrent sexual partnerships were shaped by traditional norms and perceptions surrounding masculinity, communication and policies on MCP and MC did not take these norms and perceptions into account.
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RecommendationsCommunication on issues relating to concurrent sexual partnerships and medical male circumcision needs to go further in addressing social drivers shaping such behavior, including norms of masculinity.
There is a need for greater civil society engagement with the issues, including advocacy around service provision and resource allocation for medical male circumcision.
Communication needs to be ongoing and should not be pulled out abrubtly.
Communicating HIV prevention A study of current approaches to male circumcision and multiple concurrent partnerships in Uganda and Zambia
In both countries there was limited engagement and advocacy by civil society around the issue.
Billboard advertising the dangers of having multiple concurrent partners in Uganda. Most of them have been put down in June 2010. Spot messages continue to run on radio and television stations.Photo credit: Dennis Naika Akuze/PEA Pictures
Helped in reducing multiple concurrent partnerships and increasing uptake of male circumcision Addressed the social drivers that shape people’s behaviour and attitude towards medical male circumcision and concurrent sexual partnerships
MOPE065 Monday 19 July, 2010Where: Poster Exhibition Area, When: 12.30 - 14.30 Hrs