“A loving man has a very huge responsibility”: A mixed methods study of Malawian men’s knowledge and beliefs about cervical cancer

摘要: Background In Malawi, numerous barriers may prevent women from accessing cervical cancer screening services - including social factors such as male partner involvement. We conducted surveys that included open- and closed-ended questions with married Malawian men to evaluate their knowledge beliefs about cancer. Methods HIV-positive adult (≥18 years) (married or in a stable relationship) were recruited an antiretroviral therapy clinic Lilongwe, Malawi. Men asked series of survey assess cancer, experience female partner's history, gender norms household decision-making. Following the survey, participants responded set open-ended interview screening, men's role prevention. Results One hundred-twenty enrolled average age 44 years 55% having completed secondary school higher education. Despite only moderate (average assessment score 62% correct), all expressed support most (86%) believed they should be involved decision screened. Over half (61%) said had previously been screened for this was positively correlated respondent more progressive around sexual practices. Some concerns process, namely propriety vaginal exams when performed by clinicians, whether procedure painful. Conclusions Male partners Malawi want decisions but have limited hold rigid affect screening. Messaging campaigns addressing instrumental improving women's adoption similar settings.