The association between knowledge levels regarding male circumcision and uptake of male circumcision among males aged 18 to 45 years at Nyanga District Hospital Manicaland province

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to determine the association between knowledge levels regarding male circumcision and male circumcision uptake among males aged 18 to 45 years at Nyanga District Hospital Manicaland Province. The research came as result of low uptake of male circumcision at a rate of 10 % since its inception in 2009 from a targeted background of 85 % of males to be circumcised by 2015(ZIMSTAT, 2013). A cross sectional analytic study design was utilised where knowledge levels and uptake were assessed simultaneously at a single point to establish association. Systematic interval sampling was used to select a sample size of 160 respondents. Data collection was done using a structured questionnaire comprising of demographic information in section A, uptake of male circumcision in in section B and knowledge levels regarding male circumcision in section C. Validity and reliability of the instrument was ensured by carrying out a pilot study at Mt Melleray Mission Hospital. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was utilised in analysing data using descriptive and inferential statistics. The Pearson Coefficient was (r = 0.418 p = < 0.001) showing a significant positive linear correlation. Increased knowledge levels regarding male circumcision have a positive impact on the uptake of male circumcision. The regression analysis was 0.175 meaning that 17.5 % of male circumcision was due to high knowledge levels of male circumcision. However, there is need to explore other factors like culture, attitudes and behaviour. The low uptake of male circumcision is attributed to knowledge as well as other factors like fear of pain; fear of sexual impairment hence the need to assure clients of quality services that will not cause them harm. Embracing male circumcision will reduce HIV and AIDS disease burden by reducing new HIV infections, a scenario that will reduce parent to child transmission of HIV infection. Maternal HIV and AIDS related mortality deaths are averted thus MDG 4, 5 and 6 are addressed.