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Ethical implications of economic compensation for voluntary medical male circumcision for HIV prevention and epidemic control

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  • Johannes Köhler
  • Jerome Amir Singh
  • Rennie Stuart
  • Julia Samuelson
  • Andreas Alois Reis

Abstract

Despite tremendous efforts in fighting HIV over the last decades, the estimated annual number of new infections is still a staggering 1.5 million. There is evidence that voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) provides protection against men’s heterosexual acquisition of HIV-1 infection. Despite good progress, most countries implementing VMMC for HIV prevention programmes are challenged to reach VMMC coverage rates of 90%. Particularly for men older than 25 years, a low uptake has been reported. Consequently, there is a need to identify, study and implement interventions that could increase the uptake of VMMC. Loss of income and incurred transportation costs have been reported as major barriers to uptake of VMMC. In response, it has been suggested to use economic compensation in order to increase VMMC uptake. In this discussion paper, we present and review relevant arguments and concerns to inform decision-makers about the ethical implications of using economic compensation, and to provide a comprehensive basis for policy and project-related discussions and decisions.

Suggested Citation

  • Johannes Köhler & Jerome Amir Singh & Rennie Stuart & Julia Samuelson & Andreas Alois Reis, 2022. "Ethical implications of economic compensation for voluntary medical male circumcision for HIV prevention and epidemic control," PLOS Global Public Health, Public Library of Science, vol. 2(12), pages 1-12, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pgph00:0001361
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001361
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    1. Cass Sunstein, 2015. "Nudges Do Not Undermine Human Agency," Journal of Consumer Policy, Springer, vol. 38(3), pages 207-210, September.
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