Assessment of health care workers’ attitudes and perceptions towards voluntary medical male circumcision at Ugu District, KwaZulu-Natal.

Abstract

During the last two decades, Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC) has emerged as a cornerstone in the fight against Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in sub-Saharan Africa. This intervention, particularly in regions like South Africa, serves as a significant measure for reducing HIV transmission. Success of VMMC programmes is intricately linked to the attitudes and perceptions of healthcare workers, who play a crucial role in mediating intervention's implementation and acceptance amongst target populations. Male circumcision is performed for various reasons, including religious, cultural, personal, hygienic, and medical purposes (Maibvise & Mavundla, 2013:139). The VMMC is an integral part of a comprehensive HIV prevention strategy that is implemented. This strategy encompasses HIV counselling and testing (HCT) and counselling on reducing the number of sexual partners. This strategy, spearheaded by the National Department of Health (NDoH), has expanded significantly, positioning VMMC as a key component in the nation's HIV prevention efforts. While traditional male circumcision (TMC) has deep cultural and religious roots in South Africa, it poses significant risks. In contrast, VMMC is conducted in a medical setting, ensuring higher safety standards and enhanced health outcomes. The study demonstrated a positive link between VMMC and the reduced risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that underscored its significance within the public health agenda. This research aimed to evaluate the attitudes and perceptions of healthcare workers towards VMMC in the Ugu District of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). This region is located in the south of KZN as an economic hub with a diverse population. The study was theorised within the lenses of public policy dimension and the Health Belief Model, influencing adoption and effectiveness towards improving public health service delivery. Qualitatively, the study sought to identify factors influencing healthcare workers' acceptance, understanding, and advocacy for VMMC. The NDoH has recognised the critical need to enhance VMMC as a primary STI prevention strategy. Since 2014, the department has actively promoted VMMC through medical and demand generation drives, targeting males aged 15 and above. These efforts are implemented across The United States President's Emergency Fund for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) priority and non-priority districts in primary and community based healthcare facilities.