Felix NIYONGABO is a Medical Doctor. He possesses a Master in public health. (Specialization: Epidemiology) , Lecturer of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Research Methods at Lumiere University

Background : In Burundi, according to the recent study on new HIV infections, 25% of men who have sex with men had a recent one compared to 6.8% in the overall sample. The only factor associated with HIV infection , the key population group. in order to contribute to the limitation of these new HIV infections We conducted a study to find out the level of awareness and acceptability of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among MSM in Bujumbura and potential predictors.

Methods : A analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at Turiho center and MSM conviviality center (Remuruka center) among Bujumbura . A sample of 241 MSM was formed, three types of analysis were performed: Descriptive analysis, univariate and multivariate logistic regression . After modelling, variables with a p-value <0.05 were selected.
Results: A level of knowledge about PrEP was estimated at 39.63% while 72.20% expressed a willingness to use PrEP. Factors that remained significantly associated with the intention to use PrEP after the multivariate analysis are: marital status ( P-value : 0.000) , having unprotected sex ( P-value : 0.016) , having multiple sexual partners (P-value: 0.003), be comfortable talking about their sexual practices (P-value: 0.000), perception of being considered as people living with HIV PLHIV (P-value: 0.000).

Conclusion : This study demonstrates a low level of awareness of PrEP and a high willingness to use it. Having practices and behaviours at high risk of contracting HIV, percetion of being considered as people living with HIV (PLHIV) when using PrEP, were associated with willingness to use PrEP. Our findings therefore highlight the need to promote awareness and understanding of PrEP as an effective and safe prevention tool, in combination with other methods and comprehensive prevention strategies should be recommended in the MSM community.