Contextual Factors Associated With Consistent Condom Use And Condom Self-efficacy Amongst African Asylum Seekers And Refugees In Hong Kong

Abstract

Background: 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. Methods: 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. Results: 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. Conclusion: 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. © 2017 Australasian College for Infection Prevention and Control