Social-Economic Factors Influencing Voluntary Uptake of Medical Circumcision among Males in Turkana County

Purpose: Kenya is amongst six high-burden nations in Africa grappling high HIV infections. Approximately 91.2% of Kenyan men have undergone circumcision. However, male circumcision is not traditionally practiced in Turkana community with male circumcision rates ranging from 5-10%. The study's goals were to determine how socio-cultural factors, influence Voluntary male circumcision in Turkana County. Methodology: Utilizing a researcher-administered survey, KII schedules, and a FGD guide, data was gathered. 434 males made up the sample size. An analytical cross-sectional methodology was used in the investigation. The data was analyzed with SPSS 22. Results: Results showed that of 374 male participants in the study, 79.9% had undergone circumcision, 77.0% were aged 18-35 years, 94.1% were Christians, and 44.7% were unemployed while 54.8% were married. The overall mean scores of responses for socio-economic factors was 2.894 (negative). The study found that socioeconomic factors was significant predictors of embracing VMMC. However, socioeconomic factors were found to decrease uptake of VMMC by 0.37 [OR = 0.371; 95%CI: -0.577-0.166, P=0.000]. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends that policies addressing main VMMC uptake amongst men in Turkana County should incorporate public participation, traditional leaders and local administrators for societal acceptance. There is need for effective sensitization and advocacy for behavioral change, mobilization and ownership of the initiative by the community.