Barriers To Effective Control of HIV/AIDS Among Male Partners of Commercial Sex Workers in Ibadan, Nigeria

摘要

Male sexual partners of commercial sex workers (CSW) are at an increased risk for HIV, but many of the HIV control programs have not been focused towards the control of the spread of the disease among this high-risk group. The objective of this study was to identify constraints to effective preventive measures and specifically to identify reasons why men visit CSW/brothels, to determine their level of knowledge on preventive options, their perception of risk, condom use and to explore emerging themes. A total of 3 focus group discussions (FGD) and 7 in-depth interviews and participant observations were employed in obtaining data from 37 partners of CSW enrolled in selected brothels within Ibadan municipality. Results showed that the men were aware of HIV prevention options but reported that they were generally unacceptable. Condoms were readily available and accessible but most men would rather have sex without the condom especially if they could afford the higher price demanded for this favor by the CSW. HIV/AIDS knowledge was very high though some men did not believe that they could contract HIV/AIDS. Strategies should urgently be put in place to address behaviors, which promote the spread of the disease among these men.