Masculinity R21: A Longitudinal Mixed-Methods Investigation of Masculinity, Stigma, and Disclosure on Men's ART Initiation in South Africa

Over 7.9 million people in South Africa (SA) are living with HIV. Among men living with HIV (MLWH) in SA, only 56% who know their status have initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART). This mixed-methods study focuses on hegemonic masculinity beliefs (HMBs), or the idealized forms of what it means to ‘be a man’, which has been identified as a major reason why men do not seek and stay engaged in HIV care. This project aims to examine whether disclosing HIV status mediates the association between HMBs and ART initiation and whether internalized stigma moderates the association between HMBs and disclosure among men newly diagnosed with HIV. This is a 2-year study funded by NIMH to improve knowledge on interpersonal factors related to optimal HIV care and support UNAIDS’ priority to engage and retain MLWH in care.

Location: Cape Town, South Africa; Funding: NIMH (1R21MH123280 - 01A1; PIs: Belus, Marais, Magidson). Partnering with the University of Cape Town (UCT). Opportunities for staff and graduate students to be involved in data management, qualitative coding and analysis, and future grant submissions.