Published in:
01-11-2007 | Original Paper
Factors Associated with Religious Congregation Members’ Support to People Living with HIV/AIDS in Kumasi, Ghana
Authors:
Eva S. Bazant, Marc Boulay
Published in:
AIDS and Behavior
|
Issue 6/2007
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Abstract
Physical, social and economic constraints often limit the ability of people living with HIV/AIDS to meet their basic needs. Community members are a valuable source of support for people living with HIV/AIDS, although little is known about the types of support they provide or how to mobilize this support. To examine this issue, a survey of 1200 members of 6 religious congregations was conducted in Kumasi, Ghana. A fifth of congregation members reported providing some support to people with HIV/AIDS in the last 6 months, mostly through prayer, financial support, and counseling. Factors associated with providing support include having heard a congregation or tribal chief speaking about HIV/AIDS, collective efficacy related to HIV/AIDS, and perceived risk of becoming infected with HIV. To enhance support to people with HIV/AIDS, programs should involve community leaders and encourage dialogue on ways to address the epidemic.