Factors associated with male involvement in prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) programmes in Entebbe Municipality

Abstract

Background: Involving men in PMTCT programmes increases its uptake by women. Despite this observation, providers and implementers of PMTCT programmes continue to face challenges in reaching sexual partners of HIV positive women and persuading them to get involved in PMTCT services (Rutenberg, Kalibala, Mwai &Rosen, 2003). This study assessed women’s perceptions on the factors associated with male involvement in PMTCT programs in Entebbe Municipality. Methodology: We conducted a cross-sectional survey using semi-structured questionnaires among 398 HIV positive women attending PMTCT clinics in TASO and Entebbe Hospital. Focus group discussions were conducted among women attending the clinics as well as HIV positive men. Data analysis was done using proportions, crude odd ratios and logistic regression. Results: Seventy seven percent (306/398) of the respondents reported a low level of male involvement index. Urban respondents (AOR = 2.6; CI 1.5 - 4.5), those with tertiary education (AOR = 5.1; CI 1.9-13.9), married/cohabiting respondents (AOR= 3.5; CI 2.0-6.2) and respondents who were more knowledgeable about PMTCT programs (OR=3.9; CI 2.0-7.5) were more likely to report male involvement in PMTCT programs. Conclusion: We found low male involvement in PMTCT programmes in Entebbe Municipality. PMTCT programmes need to sensitize the rural, the single, those with low education and those with low knowledge about PMTCT the benefits of male involvement in PMTCT programmes.