MSM in Accra, Ghana and Lome, Togo: Sexual history and HIV Risk Behavior

• In Event: 592 - Regular Session. Social Dimensions of Aids

Abstract

Africa is recognized as the epicenter for the HIV/AIDS pandemic as it contributes 68% of the world’s HIV/AIDS infections. This calls for urgent actions to reduce risk behaviors among at-risk and the vulnerable populations infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. We conducted a cross-sectional survey and interviews among sixty MSM in Accra, Ghana and Lome, Togo. Participants were recruited via a convenience sampling from October 2012 to July 2013. The interview data were analyzed manually, using the successive approximation method in combination with the approach of grounded theory. First, through open coding, recurrent concepts were generated. Second, through axial coding, we created relationships within the concepts. We identified two ways through which first sexual encounters happened – planned and unplanned, and 3 types of risky sexual behavior: exchange sex for a valued resource, inconsistent use of condoms, and having multiple sexual partners. We also found that the first homosexual activities were with mainly classmates, especially in boarding schools, friends, neighbors, and family members. While some of our findings, especially the reasons for exhibiting risky sexual behavior, concur with previous studies, our study also found that some of the MSM did not use condoms because they wanted their partners to quickly ejaculate as they were uncomfortable during sexual activities when they were the passive partners. A few policy recommendations were provided.

Authors

• Ami R. Moore, University of North Texas

• Gertrude Adobea Owusu, University of Ghana