Predictors of male condom utilization in Plateau State, Nigeria

Nigerian men play major roles in the reproductive decision-making process, including issues concerning fertility. Despite efforts made by the government to reduce the incidence of HIV by using condom as a means of dual protection, the utilization of male condom is still relatively low in Nigeria. This study aimed to assess the condom utilization and predictors of condom use among male respondents in Plateau State.

An analysis of secondary data of the 2013 Nigeria Demographic Health Survey dataset was done. Data were collected through a cross-sectional study using multistage cluster sampling technique from 393 consenting males aged 15-49 years in Plateau State using a semistructured, closed-ended questionnaire. Survey data quality was ascertained using field check tables during data entry. The dataset was analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 software (SPSS, IBM Corp, Armonk, NY, USA). Condom utilization prevalence rate was calculated for the 393 males, while predictors were determined by logistic regression. P ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Mean age of the respondents was 31.05 ± 9.395 years. Most (90.3%) of the respondents were aware of at least one of the various family planning methods. The prevalence of condom use among them was 15.5% with the 20-29 years' age group having the highest proportion (28.8%). Significant associations were found between condom use and age, level of wealth, level of education, marital status, knowledge of contraception, occupation, and religion. Predictors of condom use include level of wealth (middle class), not being married, and primary level education.

The prevalence of male condom use is low in Plateau State. The predictors of condom use are level of wealth, being unmarried, and primary level of education. Having only a primary level of education and been in the middle class reduces the likelihood of using condoms while being unmarried increases it.