Knowledge and Utilization of Condom among Gay, Bisexual and Transgender of Nepal

Abstract

Introduction: Gay, Bisexual, Transgender community in Nepal are still stigmatized and regarded as vulnerable population. Since, male having sex with male are high risk population for various Sexually Transmitted Infections including Human Immunodeficiency Virus, the knowledge and utilization of condom plays an important role in reducing the risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections. The main purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge and utilization of condom among Gay, Bisexual and Transgender of Nepal.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive quantative study, carried out in Kathmandu valley. Samples were collected from various LGBT related organizations through snowball sampling techniques, recruiting 59 respondents of age 18 and above. Semi structured questionnaire were developed and direct interview with the respondent was taken whose consent was taken before interview.

Results: Among 59 respondents, 90% of gay people had enough knowledge regarding condom, 77% of bisexual people had enough knowledge and 52% transgender had enough knowledge regarding condom. Similarly, 68% of gay people had followed good utilization practice of condom, all bisexual people had followed good utilization practice and 78% transgender had followed good utilization practice. Out of total respondent, 80% were found to be using condom consistently during sexual contact in last 12 months. There was found to be significant association between alcohol consumption during sexual contact and utilization of condom.

Conclusions: Gay, bisexual and transgender in Nepal are key population for HIV/AIDS transmission. Therefore, more efforts should be made for addressing this issue with proper prioritization, planning and implementation on condom programs.