SYNDEMICS OF DEPRESSION, HIGH RISK BEHAVIOURS, VICTIMISATION AND THEIR ASSOCIATION WITH SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS AMONG MEN WHO HAVE SEX WITH MEN AND TRANSGENDERS IN KOLAR - A MIXED METHOD STUDY

Abstract

BACKGROUND Public health research has increasingly recognized the complex health challenges faced by marginalized populations, particularly Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) and Transgender communities. This dissertation challenges traditional epidemiological approaches by employing a syndemic framework that explores how interconnected health issues develop within specific social and structural contexts. By examining the intricate relationships between social inequalities, psychological experiences, and biological vulnerabilities, the research provides a novel investigation into the health experiences of MSM and Transgender populations in Kolar district, Karnataka, India. OBJECTIVES:  To determine the presence and co-occurence of depression, high risk behaviours, and victimisation and their association with occurrence of STIs among MSM and Transgenders in Kolar district.  To Explore the impact of psychosocial health conditions on health seeking behaviour among ‘MSM and Transgenders’ in Kolar district. METHODOLOGY The study implemented a mixed-method research design over 18 months, involving 410 participants from MSM and Transgender communities in Kolar district. The research employed a comprehensive data collection strategy, combining standardized quantitative tools like the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) with qualitative methods including focus group discussions and narrative interviews. An innovative analytical approach integrated syndemic theoretical frameworks, intersectionality perspectives, and advanced statistical analyses to