Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Public Health and Surveillance
Date Submitted: Nov 7, 2024
Open Peer Review Period: Nov 7, 2024 - Jan 2, 2025
Date Accepted: Jan 5, 2025
(closed for review but you can still tweet)
Monkeypox Prevention Self-Efficacy and Associated Factors Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China: A Large Cross-Sectional Study
ABSTRACT
Background:
Self-efficacy in mpox prevention plays a pivotal role in promoting preventive behaviors by fostering a sense of control and motivation, especially among men who have sex with men (MSM), the population most affected by mpox in many countries.
Objective:
This study aims to assess the mpox prevention self-efficacy among MSM in China and identify factors influencing it, using a validated Mpox Prevention Self-Efficacy Scale.
Methods:
From November 2023 to March 2024, a nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted among MSM (aged≥18 years) across six geographic regions in China using a snowball sampling method. The Mpox Prevention Self-Efficacy Scale was assessed for reliability and validity. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to examine the factors associated with mpox prevention self-efficacy among MSM.
Results:
Among the 2403 participants, the median mpox prevention self-efficacy score was 23 (IQR 18-28). The Mpox Prevention Self-Efficacy Scale demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach α＝0.859) and a strong model fit (χ²5＝32.1, n＝1225; P<.001; CFI＝0.991; RMSEA＝0.067; SRMR＝0.02). Logistic regression analysis indicated that mpox prevention self-efficacy was significantly associated with mpox-related knowledge (OR 1.107, 95% CI 1.070-1.146), perceived risk awareness (OR 1.338, 95% CI 1.132-1.58), and mpox risk perception (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.066-1.250). Individuals over 25 years old exhibited lower self-efficacy in mpox prevention (25-34 years: OR 0.789, 95% CI 0.642-0.970; 35–44 years: OR 0.572, 95% CI 0.444-0.736; 45 years and older: OR 0.569, 95% CI 0.394-0.823).
Conclusions:
These findings highlight the critical role of targeted interventions to enhance mpox prevention self-efficacy, particularly through increasing knowledge, perceived risk awareness, and risk perception. Such interventions are especially important for middle-aged and older MSM, who may experience a decline in self-efficacy. Strengthening self-efficacy in these areas is essential for promoting sustained preventive behaviors, improving mental well-being, and contributing to more effective mpox prevention and control within the MSM community.
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