Project RUSH: Implementing and evaluating a community-based teen pregnancy prevention program among Hispanic youth in...

The burden of sexually transmitted infections, HIV, and unintended pregnancies is disproportionate among Hispanic youth (ages 15-19) in Texas as compared to other groups nationally. A community intervention, Project Realistic Understanding of Sexual Health (RUSH) was developed using the Making Proud Choices, an evidence-based teen pregnancy program (TPP). This study aimed to present the use of a community-based participatory research (CBPR) framework in designing and implementing a sexual health intervention for rural Hispanic youth and participant outcomes (knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors).

Single group Pre/Post Design employing a CPBR approach.

A CBPR approach and programmatic evaluation were utilized to design and deliver an evidence-based teen pregnancy prevention program (TPP). A pre-post questionnaire was self-administered to eligible and consenting participants who were recruited via convenience sampling. Project RUSH was delivered over 8-week sessions in community centers throughout the 5-county service area.

In total, 160 youth were recruited, and 112 participants completed the intervention with the pre-and-post assessments. The majority self-identified as Hispanic/Latino (76%). Increased knowledge of pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and HIV/AIDS were statistically significant after the intervention. Respondents' feedback demonstrated satisfaction in the program (setting, facilitators, curriculum).

Input and engagement from community stakeholders helped refine the implementation of RUSH. Although a group change was observed, additional research, community engagement, and further analyses are needed to assess long term and support positive sexual behaviors among the youth in rural South Texas.

The findings support the continued need to develop tailored sexual education community interventions for youth in rural communities.