Knowledge, attitudes and practices on voluntary medical male circumcision for HIV prevention in the Oshana region of Namibia
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Date
2016
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Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
The study was conducted in the Oshana region with the purpose of identifying the existing knowledge, attitudes, and practices among the men aged 18-49 years old with regard to Voluntary Medical Male circumcision (VMMC) for HIV prevention. The study sought to assess and describe the knowledge and attitudes and practices (KAP) of men aged 18-49 in the Oshana region with regards to VMMC for HIV prevention, explore and describe the reasons for men not taking up VMMC for HIV prevention and analyze the differences between circumcised and uncircumcised men with regards to knowledge and attitudes on VMMC. The study employed a quantitative, cross-sectional analytic research design. A combination of stratified random sampling and convenient sampling was used. The data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire from a sample of 381 respondents. Data was analysed using Epi-Info 7, SPSS and Excel. The findings of this research reflected that many respondents were circumcised. The knowledge of respondent’s regarding circumcision was quite high. The knowledge aspect was analysed in terms of their awareness, definition of VMMC, benefits, risk, provision of the services, cost of the services and the link between circumcision and HIV. Almost all the participants (97.64%) were aware of the existence of VMMC and 76.64% could define VMMC and give its similarities and differences with traditional circumcision. There was generally a positive attitude towards circumcision, and this could be seen in that the people were willing to be circumcised and even encouraged their family members to be circumcised. Majority said that VMMC is acceptable in their religion (71%). They also did not have problems in their cultures as 71% of the participants also said that their cultures did support the practice. The people were willing to talk about it and learn more and this is an indication of a positive attitude. Respondents who were not circumcised were willing to use the service after receiving knowledge about the benefits of circumcision. The research recommended that male training in the area of VMMC must continue to ensure that men have the information that they need, and enhance the much needed positive attitude and hence influence their practices of VMMC. Outreach programs must continue using radio, pamphlets, television and traditional authorities.
Description
A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment for the Degree of Masters in Public Health
Keywords
Male circumcision, HIV prevention