Awareness, Knowledge, and Attitude toward Vasectomy among Ugandan Men: A Cross-sectional Study
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Background
Vasectomy remains one of the most underutilized contraceptive methods in Uganda, with a prevalence of only 0.2% despite its safety, effectiveness, and potential contribution to fertility reduction. Understanding the factors influencing awareness, knowledge, and attitudes toward vasectomy acceptance is crucial for developing effective promotion strategies in the Ugandan context.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 617 men aged 20-60 years, selected through simple random sampling of participants attending Kapchorwa General Hospital. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire.
Results
Knowledge scores showed a negative association with age (β = -0.044, p < 0.001) and varied significantly by marital status, with married participants demonstrating higher knowledge than single (β = -0.624, p < 0.001) and widowed (β = -0.950, p < 0.001) individuals. Counterintuitively, higher knowledge was associated with more negative attitudes (β = -1.729, p < 0.001). Age demonstrated the strongest negative effect on attitudes (β = -0.249, p < 0.001), and 99.9% of participants believed contraception is primarily women’s responsibility. Behavioral data revealed that 75.0% desired more children, with 51.2% preferring a family size of 3-4 as the ideal.
Conclusion
The study shows a disconnect between knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding vasectomy. While general awareness is high, deep-seated misconceptions, cultural norms around masculinity and contraceptive responsibility, and fertility preferences present significant barriers to acceptance.
