Factors influencing uptake of voluntary medical male circumcision in Agule sub-county, Pallisa district

Abstract

This study assessed the factors influencing uptake of VMMC in Agule Sub-county Pallisa, district. The study objectives were: to find out sources of information regarding voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC), to find out men’s awareness of the benefits regarding VMMC, to find out factors motivating men to seek VMMC and to find out factors constraining men from seeking VMMC in Agule Sub-county, Pallisa district. A descriptive cross -sectional design was adopted for this study using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire administered on randomly selected 80 respondents. Data was also collected from key informants and other members of the community through focus groupdiscussions (FGDs).The study findings indicated that respondents had heard about VMMC through radio (33.7%), adverts (27%), friends (18.7%), community members and community leaders (13.7%). Almost a half of the respondents (47.6%) were aware that MMC reduces the spread of HIV. Other benefits reported by respondents included prevention of cancer (11.2%) and personal hygiene (13%). Factors that motivated men to seek VMMC included to avoid contracting HIV (25%), avoidance of getting other sexually transmitted infections (13.7%), prevention of cancer (8.7%) and promotion of hygiene (12.5%). Study findings revealed constraints to seeking VMMC, which included religion and culture (30%) and (26%) respectively, fear of pain (15%), loss of sexual sensitivity (7.5%) and fear of partner abandonment during healing period (5%).In conclusion, as much as information is known about VMMC, the uptake remains low. The study therefore recommends intensified campaigns by various players to promote uptake of VMMC by dispelling off the fear and misconceptions that surround the whole practice