Implementation and evaluation of a culturally grounded group-based HIV prevention programme for men who have sex with men in Ghana
Date
2020
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Global Public Health
Abstract
This study examined the feasibility and acceptability of an evidence-based
HIV prevention programme for men who have sex with men (MSM) in
Ghana through a participatory approach. The programme involved 57
self-identified adult cisgender MSM and led by a community-based
organisation in collaboration with local nurses. We used an explanatory
mixed-method design to evaluate the programme. We computed
descriptive statistics, relative frequency, and paired proportionate
analysis for the survey data and subjected the focus groups data to
summative content analysis. Five key themes from the qualitative data
indicated strong evidence of the acceptability and efficacy of the
programme among MSM. The programme contributed to building
social support networks, a sense of social justice among MSM, and
facilitated the development of personalised HIV prevention menus by
the participants. We observed increases in HIV testing (from 4% to 17%)
and increases in the relative frequency of condom use for anal, oral,
and vaginal sex. The programme served as an example of a successfully
implemented culturally grounded intervention that has the potential to
increase HIV and STI awareness and prevention among MSM in Ghana
and other highly stigmatised environments.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
MSM sexual health and HIV/ AIDS, Evidence-based intervention, Ghana and sub-Saharan Africa