Prevalence and Correlates of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Uptake among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Kisumu County, Kenya

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DOI: 10.23880/phoa-16000305

Volume 9, Issue 2

Abstract

Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) bear a disproportionate burden of HIV infection. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is an effective biomedical HIV prevention tool, yet its uptake remains limited among MSM populations. We sought to determine the prevalence and correlates of HIV PEP uptake among MSM in Kisumu County, Kenya. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 308 HIV-negative MSM aged 18–29 years, recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. Data were collected using Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interviews (ACASI) and analyzed using Stata 17. Descriptive statistics, bivariate, and multivariable logistic regressions were used to identify factors associated with PEP uptake. Results: The prevalence of ever using PEP was 27.9% (n=86). Factors significantly associated with PEP use included knowing someone currently taking PrEP (aOR=4.29; 95% CI: 2.17–8.48) and ever having used PrEP (aOR=9.46; 95% CI: 4.91–18.2). Engaging in transactional sex (receiving cash for sex) was also significantly associated with PEP uptake (OR=2.08; 95% CI: 1.24–3.49). Having sex with a regular partner was associated with lower odds of PEP use (OR=0.57; 95% CI: 0.34–0.93). Conclusion: Uptake of PEP among MSM in Kisumu is low. Peer influence and prior PrEP use enhance PEP uptake. Programs should focus on MSM with multiple sexual partners and those involved in transactional sex while addressing perceived safety in regular partnerships.

Keywords: Prevalence; Correlates; MSM; PEP Uptake

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