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Abstract
Understanding HIV risk behavior among men who have sex with men in Zambia
K. Zulu1, N.D. Bulawo2, W. Zulu1
Background: Unprotected anal sex is several times risky than unprotected vaginal intercourse with an HIV-infected man (UNAIDS). Study objectives were to examine the prevalence of high risk behavior, assess predictability of bisexual HIV transmission. Assess access to sexual health information, HIV prevention and care programs in a sample of 18-40 old MSM in Zambia.
Methods: 641 MSM completed questionnaires in which some answers were given orally and others in writing: Variables include HIV/AIDS knowledge, sexual behaviour, perceived risk, risk reduction intentions, peer norms and partner risk levels.
Results: Sex between men is at the core of HIV transmission in many Zambian contexts with consequences for infections, subsequently transmitted heterosexually. 51% reported high-risk male and female partners; 18% reported risk behavior reduction intentions; 33% do not believe peer norms support condom use; 68% had unprotected anal sex with men and women. 45% are sexually active bisexuals, 19% reported having had an STI, but blamed women for it. 33% are HIV positive. 73% thought anal sex is safer than vaginal sex. 89% don’t know condoms are used in anal sex.
Conclusions: Non existence of HIV prevention programs for MSM is an impediment to condom use and risk behaviour reduction making some assume that “anal sex is safe”. AIDS service organizations have ignored to mount HIV prevention programs for MSM. Sex between men and commercial sex work is illegal in Zambia, but a number of HIV prevention and care programs target female sex workers, which are making a difference in reducing STIs and HIV among female sex workers and their clients. On the flip side of these programs are MSM who enter the sex industry to survive. Multi-sectoral interventions targeted at MSM are needed to understand and decrease risk behaviour and consequently reduce HIV incidence in many Zambian context.
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
WEPE0719
Suggested Citation
"K.Zulu, et al.
Understanding HIV risk behavior among men who have sex with men in Zambia.
:
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
WEPE0719"
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