The relationship between factors that influence men, aged 20-50 years’ perceptions and their participation in PMTCT programmes in Gwanda urban

Abstract

Perception may negatively or positively influence men’s participation in PMTCT, which can lead to a rise in the morbidity and mortality rates among family members (father, mother and babies). The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between the factors that influence men’s perceptions and their participation in PMTCT (Prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV) at Gwanda Urban. Health Belief Model was used to provide a theoretical framework. Eighty men aged 20 to 50 years were selected using simple random sampling. An interview schedule consisting three sections demographic, men’s participation in PMTCT programmes and men’s perceptions of PMTCT was developed. Data was analysed using Pearson correlation coefficient test and simple regression analysis. The study findings showed a Pearson coefficient test of (r = .285, p < .05). this shows that there was a weak positive correlation between men’s participation and men’s perception of PMTCT. The results of the study show that the men’s perceptions have a weak effect on the men’s participation in PMTCT programme. R squared indicates that the men’s perception of PMTCT accounts for 8% variance in men’s perception in PMTCT programmes. It was recommended that clients be empowered to be responsible for making decicionss about their health.