Contextual factors associated with consistent condom use and condom self-efficacy amongst African asylum seekers and refugees in Hong Kong
Wong, W.C.W.; Cheng, S.; Miu, H.Y.H.; Ong, J.J.; Chen, J.; Loper, K.A.
Infection Disease and Health 23(1): 23-32
2018
ISSN/ISBN: 2468-0869 PMID: 30479300 DOI: 10.1016/j.idh.2017.08.006Document Number: 687526
Hong Kong has no systematic domestic policies committed to the rights of asylum-seekers and refugees (ASRs). This study explores the sexual health behaviours and social inequities amongst African ASRs in Hong Kong. A cross-sectional survey of African ASRs was conducted through three local non-governmental organizations in 2013. A logistic model was used to test the interactions and relationship between the respondents' consistent condom use and contextual antecedents, socio-demographic factors, psychosocial factors and condom self-efficacy (CSE) score. 371 adult African ASRs were recruited. In the previous month, 35% and 38% of participants consistently had used condoms with regular and casual sexual partners respectively. However, less than 50% perceived no risk of HIV/STIs and less than 60% reported not knowing how to access sexual health screening. Consistent condom use was less likely among African ASRs who were married (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.10), used recreational drugs (aOR = 0.11) or were unsure of their sexual orientation (aOR = 0.05) and was positively associated with higher CSE scores (aOR = 1.09) Pre-migration determinants and lifestyle determinants accounted for most of the variance in the model. The inconsistent condom use makes African ASRs vulnerable to HIV/STIs. Tailored interventions are needed to address the associated determinants and inequities amongst African ASRs living in Hong Kong.