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Abstract
Circumcision practices and risks of HIV transmission. Case study: Eastern Uganda
M S Mayega
Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
Option 1 (tracks A-G)
Background: Circumcision is partly a culture and practice of removing the fore and inner skin of the "man-hood". For females, their genitals are mutilated. In both cases, this risky and painful practice is performed on teenage youths, aged between 11-18. Usually, folk-surgeons carry out this exercise for a pay. Just in a single circumcision season, over 27,000 people under go pain and risk.
Unfortunately, sharing of sharp –utensils like knives have been identified and recognized by health professionals as one of the core ways through which HIV is transmitted.
The study had two major objectives: To identify and document the risks of HIV/AIDS infection due to practices of circumcision. And, to suggest viable pre-cautionary and safety policy measures to counter react risky and un-safe practices.
Methods: The sample consisted of 135 respondents. Questionnaires, along side in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were employed as the major data gathering instruments. Data analysis was done manually using percentages and frequency distribution statistical methods.
Results: 66% of the respondents suggested that circumcision could have an effect on the HIV transmission. 23% of them testified that circumcision is crudely done under social pressure.8 % of the respondents reported that two of their in-mates died 3 years later after the exercise. And only 3% of the respondents reported about their friend who is sick.
Conclusion: If these risks go on unchecked, this is likely to have a significant bearing on the social- economic status of Uganda . Thus, there is an urgent need for the government, and community pro-active committees to intervene now and soon.
Programs for safe conditions and facilities need to be implemented among the people in question. Major activities for this program must rotate around, blood screening exercise before circumcision and/or allocation of one knife to one person.
The XIV International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
B10545
Suggested Citation
" M S Mayega ,
Circumcision practices and risks of HIV transmission. Case study: Eastern Uganda
.
Print Only:
The XIV International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
B10545"
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