Project Details
Layman's description
Female sex workers (FSWs) are a priority population in Cameroon’s concentrated HIV epidemic, with a prevalence of 24.3%. They are nine times more likely to acquire and transmit HIV compared to the general population. The ongoing socio-political crises in Cameroon have driven many young women into sex work, exacerbating their HIV risks.
Young FSWs (YFSWs) aged 15-24 are particularly vulnerable due to age and power differences with clients, including challenges in negotiating condom use. Despite this heightened vulnerability, less than 20% of YFSWs access HIV testing services (HTS) and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Although WHO prioritizes younger key populations for HIV prevention, YFSWs remain underserved in Africa, especially Cameroon.
This research aims to identify barriers and facilitators influencing HIV prevention uptake, including HTS and PrEP among YFSWs, across four conflict-affected regions in Cameroon. The study's overarching methodological framework is the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation (COM-B) model. This model informs development of interventions, while assessing factors that influence behaviour, such as physical/psychological abilities, intrinsic/extrinsic motivation, and physical/social opportunities.
The study employs a mixed-methods approach, comprising a scoping review, assessment of youth-friendly services for YFSWs, quantitative survey among YFSWs and qualitative interviews with YFSWs and service providers. By identifying gaps in YFSWs' engagement with HIV prevention and co-designing mitigation strategies with key stakeholders, the research aims to inform policy and program adaptations tailored to the specific needs of YFSWs. This research has the potential to improve service delivery and outcomes and reduce HIV transmission among YFSWs in Cameroon and the broader region.
Young FSWs (YFSWs) aged 15-24 are particularly vulnerable due to age and power differences with clients, including challenges in negotiating condom use. Despite this heightened vulnerability, less than 20% of YFSWs access HIV testing services (HTS) and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Although WHO prioritizes younger key populations for HIV prevention, YFSWs remain underserved in Africa, especially Cameroon.
This research aims to identify barriers and facilitators influencing HIV prevention uptake, including HTS and PrEP among YFSWs, across four conflict-affected regions in Cameroon. The study's overarching methodological framework is the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation (COM-B) model. This model informs development of interventions, while assessing factors that influence behaviour, such as physical/psychological abilities, intrinsic/extrinsic motivation, and physical/social opportunities.
The study employs a mixed-methods approach, comprising a scoping review, assessment of youth-friendly services for YFSWs, quantitative survey among YFSWs and qualitative interviews with YFSWs and service providers. By identifying gaps in YFSWs' engagement with HIV prevention and co-designing mitigation strategies with key stakeholders, the research aims to inform policy and program adaptations tailored to the specific needs of YFSWs. This research has the potential to improve service delivery and outcomes and reduce HIV transmission among YFSWs in Cameroon and the broader region.
Status | Active |
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Effective start/end date | 1/01/25 → … |