A Group Intervention for HIV/STI Risk Reduction among Indian Couples

HIV in India is transmitted primarily by heterosexual contact. The present study sought to test the feasibility of a group HIV/STI risk re-duction intervention among heterosexual couples in India.

Focus groups and key informant interviews were used in 2008 to cul-turally tailor the intervention. Thirty sexually active and HIV/STI negative cou-ples were enrolled and assessed regarding risk behavior and sexual barrier accept-ability. Gender-concordant group sessions used cognitive behavioral strategies for HIV/STI prevention.

At baseline, male condom use was low (36%); no participants re-ported use of female condoms or vaginal gels. HIV knowledge was low; women had more HIV knowledge and more positive attitudes towards con-dom use than men. Post-intervention, willingness to use all barrier products (t = 10.0, P< .001) and intentions to avoid risk behavior increased (t = 5.62, P< .001).

This study illustrates the feasibility of utilizing a group interven-tion to enhance HIV/STI risk reduction among Indian couples.