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Published on: October 31, 2010
Exploring HIV risks, testing and prevention among sub-Saharan African community members in Australia
Amy B Mullens1, Jennifer Kelly2, Joseph Debattista3
1School of Psychology and Counselling, Institute for Resilient Regions, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich Campus, 11 Salisbury Road, Ipswich, Qld 4305, Australia. amy.mullens@usq.edu.au.
Background:
Significant health disparities persist regarding new and late Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) diagnoses among sub-Saharan African (SSA) communities in Australia. Personal/cultural beliefs and practices influence HIV (risk, prevention, testing) within Australia and during visits to home countries.
Method:
A community forum was conducted involving 23 male and female adult African community workers, members and leaders, and health workers; facilitated by cultural workers and an experienced clinician/researcher. The forum comprised small/large group discussions regarding HIV risk/prevention (responses transcribed verbatim; utilising thematic analysis).
Results:
Stigma, denial, social norms, tradition and culture permeated perceptions/beliefs regarding HIV testing, prevention and transmission among African Australians, particularly regarding return travel to home countries.
Conclusions:
International travel as a risk factor for HIV acquisition requires further examination, as does the role of the doctor in HIV testing and Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). Further assessment of PrEP as an appropriate/feasible intervention is needed, with careful attention regarding negative community perceptions and potential impacts.
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