Associated factors with the access to sexual health and STI/HIV services for individuals aged 18 and older in the Marrakech-Safi region of Morocco: a cross-sectional study
Abstract Background Access to sexual health and sexually transmitted infections (STI) services is crucial for promoting public health, yet it is often influenced by local gender norms, which can create significant barriers to service utilization. This study aims to explore the association between ge...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
BMC
2025-08-01
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| Series: | BMC Health Services Research |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-025-13094-w |
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| Summary: | Abstract Background Access to sexual health and sexually transmitted infections (STI) services is crucial for promoting public health, yet it is often influenced by local gender norms, which can create significant barriers to service utilization. This study aims to explore the association between gender norms and access to sexual health and STI/HIV services in the Marrakech-Safi region of Morocco. Methods This cross-sectional study conducted a survey of 632 adults from the Marrakech-Safi region, utilizing a convenience sampling method. Data were gathered through a structured, pre-tested questionnaire delivered via both online platforms and face-to-face interviews to accommodate all participants. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression were performed to discern the impact of different factors on access to sexual health and STI/HIV services with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals assessing the strength of associations. Results Our study found no significant association between adherence to gender norms and access to sexual health or STI/HIV services. However, access to sexual health services was notably influenced by sociodemographic factors. Men demonstrated a significantly lower probability of accessing these services, with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 0.417 (95% CI [0.223–0.777]; P-value = 0.006). Additionally, individuals aged under 30 years faced greater barriers, with an AOR of 0.392 (95% CI [0.225–0.683]; P-value = 0.001). In contrast, sociodemographic variables did not show significant effects on the accessibility of STI/HIV services. Conclusion Our research demonstrates that although age and gender significantly affect access to sexual health services, adherence to gender norms does not influence access to sexual health or STI/HIV services. This departure from trends in other regions highlights the unique socio-cultural dynamics of the Marrakech Safi region. Therefore, it is essential to address these challenges with dedicated public health strategies, policy reforms, and educational initiatives to ensure equitable access to health services and enhance overall health outcomes. |
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| ISSN: | 1472-6963 |