Prevalence and correlates of female genital mutilation among young women in selected sub-Saharan African countries: A pooled analysis

Langutani Miyambu ¹, Boitshwarelo Ngake ^2,3, Mluleki Tsawe ^2,3

⁰SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.

African Journal of Reproductive Health +

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July 9, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Female genital mutilation (FGM) affects over 70% of young women in selected African nations. Key factors include education, marriage age, and residence, highlighting the need for targeted awareness and empowerment programs.

Area Of Science

Public Health
Sociology
Demography

Background

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a harmful traditional practice with significant public health implications.
Understanding the socio-demographic factors associated with FGM is crucial for effective prevention strategies, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.

Purpose Of The Study

To identify and analyze the factors associated with the prevalence of female genital mutilation among young women aged 15-35 years in selected sub-Saharan African countries.
To inform targeted interventions aimed at reducing FGM rates.

Main Methods

Pooled analysis of Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data from 2015-2019 for selected sub-Saharan African countries.
Weighted study sample of 26,289 young women.
Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate regression analyses were employed.

Main Results

The overall prevalence of FGM among young women in the selected countries was 71.5%.
Sierra Leone (83.7%), Tanzania (80.8%), Ethiopia (73.0%), and Gambia (72.4%) reported the highest prevalence.
Statistically significant associations were found with age, education level, age at first marriage, parity, employment status, media exposure, and place of residence.

Conclusions

Socio-demographic factors play a significant role in the prevalence of FGM among young women in sub-Saharan Africa.
Interventions should focus on enhancing awareness, education, and empowerment, particularly for young women with lower socio-economic status.

Keywords:

Young women female genital mutilation prevalence, correlates sub-Saharan Africa