Factors affecting healthcare-seeking behaviour among men who have sex with men in Starehe sub-county, Nairobi City County

Abstract

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are a marginalized population in Kenya. When seeking medical care, they usually encounter obstacles due to accusations and public discrimination. As a result, MSMs put themselves at risk of developing serious illnesses that would burden the economy. This study aims to identify the barriers and behaviors that influence MSM healthcare-seeking. A quantitative study was conducted in Nairobi's Starehe sub-county. The researcher randomly selected participants at a Support Widows and Orphan Programmers drop-in center. The investigation happened between December 13, 2021, to January 15, 2022. Participants were subjected to a self-administered questionnaire after consenting. Most respondents were youths (92.7%:190). MSM's who encountered discrimination while receiving treatment were three times more likely to be afraid to seek medical attention (UOR=3.2, 95% CI). The majority of MSMs preferred non-government institutions (56.1 %; 115). The MSMs who were denied medical care were more likely to be afraid to seek care (UOR=3.9, 95% CI (1.192, 12.434). MSMs showed confidence in disclosing their sexual orientation to a health provider (82.1%:133) compared to family members (18.3%:11). The study found that MSMs' have challenges and poor health-seeking behaviors that is due to lack of a strategy for providing medical care to MSMs. The Ministry of Health should plan on how to supply items like drugs and protective devices required in the treatment and prevention of diseases among MSMs. Participants in this study were selected at the centrally located site in Nairobi County. The selection at one center can contribute to sampling bias.