Safer sex

Survey looks at condom use among heterosexual college men

The purpose of the study was to evaluate errors and problems in the use of male latex condoms. Although the findings cannot be generalized to a broader population and assume all of the limitations that come with self-reported data, researchers believe th at the results are significant because they point to a clear need for better condom education and instruction.

Previous studies have shown that consistent and correct use of male latex condoms will provide highly effective protection against HIV and many other sexually transmitted diseases. Although studies have focused on the consistency of condom use, relatively few studies have assessed condom use errors and problems.

A substantial proportion of college men surveyed reported a variety of errors and problems that could contribute to condom failure. Given that condoms are an important means of preventing STD/HIV infection, substantial public health benefit could accrue f rom further research assessing condom use errors and problems.

“We have known for quite some time that it is vital to get the message out to sexually active young people about the importance of consistent condom use,” said lead study author Richard Crosby of Emory University’s Center for AIDS Research. “This resear ch suggests that promoting consistent condom use may not be enough. It is important to provide adequate condom use education and skills-building instruction so that sexually active young men know how to use condoms correctly.”

Study co-authors were Stephanie Sanders and Cynthia Graham of the Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender and Reproduction at IU, and Bill Yarber of the IUB Department of Applied Health Science and senior director of the Rural Center for AIDS/STD Pre vention

http://www.stdjournal.com/