Facilitators and barriers to condom use in Middle East and North Africa: a systematic review

Abstract Background The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region continues to have the lowest prevalence of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) in world, less than 0.1%, yet new transmissions are increasing. Consistent condom use can reduce probability transmission by 90–95%, its remains as staple prevention method; however, this isn’t case for MENA region, where use, knowledge proper accessibility limited. Aims To conduct a systematic review on across different population groups, barriers facilitators countries that fall under UNAIDS regional classification MENA. Methods This was performed accordance with Preferred Reporting Items Systematic Reviews Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. search included electronic databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Academic Search Ultimate, COCHRANE, APA PsycINFO, ScienceDirect, CINAHL Complete, Scopus. There no date restriction. Results Of 471 records retrieved, 45 articles were appraised analysis. reported sub-divided into personal, social, structural factors. Condom accessibility, partner objection, their perceived ineffectiveness key barriers, whereas availability, cost, lack awareness rarely mentioned. Concerns personal health future financial security, well positive peer influence delayed sexual experience, identified motivators. Conclusion promotion needs incorporate gender-based power relationships religion, legal More investment research needed women-initiated contraceptive digital healthcare initiatives.