The Prevalence and Determinants of Male Involvement in Antenatal Care: A Cross-Sectional Study in Primary Health Care Facilities in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Abstract
Background: Male participation in Antenatal Care Services (ANC) is critical to improving mother and child health outcomes since it promotes early access to the formal health system, encourages competent delivery attendance, and supports baby and family well-being. Despite its significance, male participation in ANC is still a challenge in Africa and Tanzania. We aimed to determine the prevalence and determinants of male ANC participation at facilities in the Ubungo Municipal Council.
Methodology: The cross-sectional study used a simple random sampling strategy to obtain 126 men using a Kobo questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and modified Poisson regression assessed determinants of male involvement, whereas variables with p-values < 0.2 in the multivariable model and statistical significance were determined at p < 0.05.
Results: The 126 men (18 to 56 years, mean age = 34.5, SD = 6.2), Participants (62.0%) from Sinza District Hospital, had primary education (61.1%). The prevalence was 84.9% (95% CI: 78.2% - 90.3%). Determinants were (APR = 2.18; 95% CI: 1.17 - 4.06), education (APR = 1.88; 95% CI: 1.31 - 2.71), married (APR = 1.72; 95% CI: 1.11 - 2.26), income (APR = 1.51; 95% CI: 1.12 - 2.03 and know ANC (APR = 4.92; 95% CI: 2.71 - 8.94). Dispensary (APR = 1.98; 95% CI: 1.05 - 3.39), neutral/welcoming (APR = 2.12; 95% CI: 1.15 - 3.91), waiting time (APR = 0.61; 95% CI: 0.39 - 0.95), friendly ANC (APR = 0.61; 95% CI: 0.39 - 0.94), norms (APR = 0.59; 95% CI: 0.38 - 0.91), past ANC (APR = 1.67; 95% CI: 1.09 - 2.56), no fear HIV testing (APR = 1.52; 95% CI: 1.08 - 2.14).
Conclusion: Highest prevalence of men’s involvement, and the factors associated with men’s involvement were men’s individual social demographic factors, health facilities factors, and culturally related factors.
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