Understanding risky sexual behaviours for HIV infection among Myanmar male migrant workers in Mae Sot, Thailand: The significance of the health belief model
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62992/rxtst689Keywords:
HIV, Myanmar migrants, Risky sexual behaviours, ThailandAbstract
Background: HIV/AIDS remains a critical global health issue, particularly among vulnerable population like migrant workers. In Thailand, Myanmar male migrants face heightened risks due to limited healthcare access, peer influence, and socioeconomic challenges. Understanding factors influencing risky sexual behaviour is essential for developing targeted interventions to support HIV prevention and control efforts.
Objectives: This study aims to explore the prevalence of risky sexual behaviours and identify key demographic, behavioural, and social factors influencing these behaviours among Myanmar male migrant workers in Mae Sot, Thailand.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 454 participants. Data were collected through structured interviews, and multivariate logistic regression was applied to determine associated factors. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR), 95% confidence intervals (CI), and P-values were used to present significant factors.
Results: Among 454 participants, the prevalence of risky sexual behaviours was 29.30% (95% CI: 25.28-33.66). Key factors of risky sexual behaviours included being married (AOR: 4.05, 95% CI: 2.44-6.72), having a moderate level of perceived benefits (AOR: 2.80, 95% CI: 1.06-7.42), reporting high levels of perceived barriers (AOR: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.24-3.99) and experiencing peer pressure (AOR: 7.88, 95% CI: 4.72-13.15), all of which were associated with a higher likelihood of engaging in risky sexual behaviours.
Conclusion: Approximately one-third of Myanmar migrant workers engaged in risky sexual behaviours. Key factors contributing to these behaviours included marital status, perceived benefits, perceived barriers and peer pressure emphasizing the need for peer-led education, culturally sensitive awareness and improved healthcare access to reduce risky sexual behaviours and support Thailand’s 2030 HIV elimination goals.
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