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Prevalence of condom use errors among STD clinic patients
Diane M Grimley1, Lucy Annang, Shannon Houser
1Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294-0022, USA. dgrimley@uab.edu
American Journal of Health Behavior
|July 12, 2005
Summary
Condom errors, including breakage, were linked to gonorrhea infections in males attending STD clinics. This highlights the need for behavioral interventions focusing on correct condom usage skills.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Sexual Health
Background:
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like gonorrhea and chlamydia remain a significant public health concern.
- Condom use is a primary method for preventing STI transmission, but errors in use can compromise effectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between condom use errors and the prevalence of gonorrhea and chlamydial infections.
- To identify specific condom errors associated with increased risk of infection in an STD clinic population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted using audio computer-assisted self-interviewing with 1124 participants at an STD clinic.
- Biological specimens were collected to confirm infections during the evaluation visit.
Main Results:
- A significant proportion of participants reported condom use errors.
- Condom breakage was statistically associated with a higher likelihood of gonorrhea infection among males (Adjusted Odds Ratio = 1.91).
Conclusions:
- Findings underscore the importance of addressing condom errors in STI prevention strategies.
- Behavioral interventions should emphasize practical skills for consistent and correct condom application to reduce infection risk.