Human Immunodeficiency Virus Prophylaxis Use among High-risk Populations in Sub-Saharan Africa: Application of the Theory of Planned Behaviour

Abstract

Abstract The majority (20.8 million) of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases are in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), which is a global public health concern. Healthcare professionals, commercial sex workers and men who sleep with males are among the high-risk demographics that are disproportionately impacted. The use of HIV prophylaxis among these high-risk people in SSA is highlighted in this article, which adopts the Theory of Planned Behaviour, as a game changer towards the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 3.3, which aims to end the HIV epidemic by 2030. Antiretroviral drugs are used in HIV prophylaxis, mainly in the form of pre-exposure prophylaxis and post-exposure prophylaxis, to stop the virus from spreading. To improve attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control which would culminate into positive intentions and eventually increased utilisation of HIV prophylaxis, there is a need for a multisectoral approach that combines medical expertise, community engagement, policy reforms and resource allocation in developing comprehensive prevention programmes and ensuring access to HIV prophylaxis for the targeted population.