European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

ENGAGING MEN IN HIV PREVENTION: CHANGING GENDER NORMS IN VULNERABLE COMMUNITIES

Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu* and Chukwuma J. Okafor

ABSTRACT

HIV prevention efforts have historically focused on women and key populations, often overlooking the role of
men, especially in vulnerable communities where traditional gender norms can significantly impact health
behaviors. These gender norms often prevent men from engaging in HIV prevention activities, such as testing,
treatment adherence, and safe sexual practices. This review highlights the critical need to engage men in HIV
prevention by addressing these norms, which often associate masculinity with avoiding health-seeking behaviors.
By transforming these gender perceptions, public health programs can achieve more inclusive, effective, and
sustainable HIV prevention outcomes. The review discusses various strategies to engage men in HIV prevention,
such as community-based interventions, male-targeted awareness campaigns, and gender-sensitive health services.
These interventions aim to challenge traditional views of masculinity, promote positive behaviors, and provide
men with the tools and knowledge to take responsibility for their sexual health. Key strategies include peer
education programs, sports-based initiatives, and the integration of HIV prevention into broader male-dominated
health sectors like workplaces. The review also emphasizes the importance of addressing barriers such as stigma,
social pressures, and access to care to facilitate greater male participation in HIV prevention.

Keywords: HIV, Gender norms, Men’s involvement, Vulnerable communities, Behavioral change.