Access to and utilization of HIV services by key populations in Sudan
Document type: mthesis
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Abstract:
BACKGROUND: In Sudan despite the low overall prevalence of HIV, the epidemic continues to expand among key populations at higher risk, like men having sex with men (MSM) and female sex workers (FSWs) who have limited access to and utilization of HIV services. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to explore factors affecting access to and utilization of HIV services among key populations at higher risk in Sudan in order to make a recommendation to the Sudan National AIDS control program to improve HIV service utilization among the KPAHR.
METHOD: A desk review of access to and utilization of HIV prevention and treatment services among FSW and MSM irrespective of time frame, design and language (Arabic & English) was conducted. Analysis was undertaken using a framework adapted from the Andersen Behavioural Model of Health Services Utilization. RESULTS: Outcomes of this study suggest that criminalization, stigmatization and discrimination of FSWs and MSM are major barriers for the utilization of HIV services in addition to the triad of lack of knowledge and misconception, low risk perception and low perceived need. Even when the HIV services exist they are constrained by inequitable distribution, inadequate quality and occasional breach of clients’ confidentiality. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS: The political and cultural environment is not conducive to address the health needs in general and sexual health needs in particular of the key population at higher risk in Sudan. The study recommend evidence-based advocacy in order to enforce the HIV policy. Community mobilization and interventions to improve access and utilization of HIV services by FSW and MSM is all recommended. Furthermore, more research on their typology and health-seeking behaviour are also recommended.
Authors:
Ahmed, M.E.
Country:
Sudan
Category:
Research
Department:
Development, Policy and Practice
Institute:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
Keywords:
disease prevention and control
,
HIV and AIDS
,
health services
,
reproductive health
Language:
eng
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
Organization:
VU - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
PAGE:
xii, 50
Place:
Amsterdam
Publisher:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute [etc.]
Year:
2012
Region:
North Africa
Right:
© 2012 Ahmed
Subject:
Health and Nutrition
Title:
Access to and utilization of HIV services by key populations in Sudan
Training:
Master of Public Health