Document Type

Brief

Publication Date

2007

Abstract

Exploratory research conducted by the Horizons Program in 2002 revealed that men who have sex with men (MSM) in Dakar, Senegal, are particularly vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV. Further, the stigma and discrimination suffered by many MSM result in the concealment of sexual behaviors from health-care providers, making it difficult to receive appropriate services. Finally, there is a lack of HIV-prevention campaigns geared to this group. Key stakeholders in Dakar developed and implemented an intervention to meet the STI/HIV prevention needs of MSM and address prevailing stigma that effectively serves as a barrier to care. The intervention included peer education; diagnosis and treatment of STIs, and HIV counseling and testing; and education and sensitization of the media. The AIDS/STI Division within the Ministry of Health coordinated the intervention. The Horizons Program assessed the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention and its outcomes on the target group. This brief summarizes findings from one of the first intervention studies to address the HIV and sexual health needs of MSM in Africa, and highlights both gains and limitations of the intervention strategies implemented.

DOI

10.31899/hiv12.1041

Language

English

Project

Horizons Program

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