MacLaren, D., Tommbe, R., Mafile'o, T., Redman-MacLaren, M., Browne, K., and McBride, W.J. (2011) Implications of male circumcision for HIV prevention in Papua New Guinea: possibilities and challenges. In: Proceedings from the 20th World Congress of Sexual Health (8) 587. p. 230. From: 20th World Congress for Sexual Health, 12-16 June 2011, Glasgow, UK.

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Abstract

Following trials that showed male circumcision (MC) reduces the risk of heterosexual men acquiring HIV, MC is now recommended in comprehensive HIV prevention packages for populations with a heterosexual, generalised epidemic and where most men are not circumcised. The 'Acceptability of Male Circumcision for HIV Prevention in Papua New Guinea (PNG)' study is being undertaken to investigate the acceptability and feasibility of MC for HIV prevention in this South Pacific nation.

Both men and women participated in structured questionnaires, individual interviews and/or focus group discussions about MC practices and the acceptability of MC for HIV prevention. Sites for this study included two universities, a mine site and an oil palm plantation. Possible implications of MC for HIV prevention were explored with both men and women. Participants reported a wide variety of traditional and contemporary penile cutting practices. Most non-circumcised men wishing to be circumcised reported a desire for medical personnel to perform the circumcision. Implications of MC reported by men included: possible increase in number of sexual partners and reduced use of condoms post circumcision. Women's concerns included: increasing the number of sexual partners for men (including outside of marital relationships) and decreased power to negotiate sexual encounters.

The acceptability of MC for HIV prevention in these sample groups appears to be high. The impact of MC on men's condom use, possible sexual disinhibition and potential negative impacts reported by women need to be investigated in specific locations considering MC as a potential intervention to reduce HIV throughout PNG.

Item ID:	21172
Item Type:	Conference Item (Abstract / Summary)
ISSN:	1743-6109
Keywords:	implications, male circumcision, HIV, prevention, Papua New Guinea
Additional Information:	The Journal of Sexual Medicine, Volume 8, Issue Supplement s3, pages 84–299, June 2011
Date Deposited:	04 Apr 2012 00:33
FoR Codes:	11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111799 Public Health and Health Services not elsewhere classified @ 100%
SEO Codes:	92 HEALTH > 9204 Public Health (excl. Specific Population Health) > 920499 Public Health (excl. Specific Population Health) not elsewhere classified @ 100%
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