Background
Cambodia’s HIV/AIDS prevalence is one of the highest in Asia and the Pacific. Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) is a key part of the national strategy against the spread of the disease, but the efforts mainly target women. A study from 2005 showed that men’s level of knowledge on mother-to-child transmission of HIV was particularly low and this, combined with the fact that many reproductive health service providers aren’t trained or equipped to accommodate male clients, has led to a lack of male involvement in issues of PMTCT and reproductive health.

About the project
This project was created to increase male involvement in PMTCT in order to contribute to reduced transmission of HIV/AIDS from parent to child in two health centers in Pursat and Battambang province. The project team trained health care providers and village health support groups on PMTCT, with an emphasis on the importance of men’s responsibility and accountability. Health education sessions on the importance and availability of PMTCT services were then conducted with over 1200 men and women in the villages. Pregnant women and their partners were encouraged to visit their nearest health centre to get tested for HIV and access appropriate services.

Results
By the end of this project, the number of pregnant couples accessing PMTCT services at the health centres each month increased. After the health education sessions in the villages, the awareness of PMTCT increased significantly among the majority women who participated, but less among their male partners. The discussions with the participants showed that when men clearly learn about their role and responsibilities in reducing HIV/AIDS infections, they will support women in seeking PMTCT services, but more work needs to be done in order to spread the message about the importance of male involvement.

Year: 2007