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The efficacy of a relationship-based HIV/STD prevention program for heterosexual couples
Nabila El-Bassel1, Susan S Witte, Louisa Gilbert
1Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY 10025, USA. ne5@columbia.edu
American Journal of Public Health
|May 30, 2003
Summary
This relationship-based HIV prevention program effectively reduced unprotected sexual acts for heterosexual couples. Delivering the intervention to the woman alone was as effective as delivering it to both partners together.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Heterosexual couples are at risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
- Relationship-based prevention programs can be effective in reducing STD transmission.
- Understanding optimal delivery methods for these interventions is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a relationship-based HIV/STD prevention program for heterosexual couples.
- To compare the efficacy of delivering the intervention to couples together versus to the woman alone.
Main Methods:
- 217 heterosexual couples were recruited and randomized into three groups.
- Group 1 received 6 intervention sessions as a couple.
- Group 2 received 6 intervention sessions individually (woman alone).
- Group 3 (control) received a single session individually (woman alone).
Main Results:
- The intervention significantly reduced unprotected sexual acts and increased protected sexual acts.
- No significant differences in effectiveness were found between couples receiving the intervention together and those where only the woman received it.
- The program demonstrated efficacy in promoting safer sexual practices.
Conclusions:
- Relationship-based prevention programs are effective for couples at risk of HIV infection.
- Intervention delivery to women alone is a viable and effective strategy, potentially increasing accessibility.
- These findings support the implementation of such programs to reduce HIV transmission in couples.
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