Behavioral intention and partner type on condom use among men in treatment.

Condom availability and communication about condom use have been associated with greater use of condoms. In addition, among drug users, positive attitudes and beliefs about condom use are associated with more consistent use during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Furthermore, enrollment in drug treatment is associated with reduced sexual and drug-related HIV risk behaviors.

This presentation focuses on data outcomes addressing condom use behaviors and attitudes among men enrolled in CTN ?Safer Sex for Men? protocol (CTN-0018). This multi-site randomized clinical trial tested the effectiveness of an intensive gender-specific HIV/AIDS group intervention for men in drug treatment. All participants completed a structured self-report questionnaire using ACASI methodology focusing on condom use attitudes and involvement in sexual risk behaviors in the prior 90 days. All participants were assessed at baseline, 3-months, and 6-months post intervention about their attitudes about condom use and condom use behaviors (e.g., possession of condoms and taking condoms from clinic stocks).

Logistic and linear regression model results will be presented. Condom possession increased over time during the study (t (292) =1.96, p=.05), but did not differ as a function of the study intervention or treatment completion. In addition, condom possession increased as a function of partner risk (t (292) =3.06, p<.01). Condom taking behaviors (i.e., from clinic stocks) also increased over time (F (2, 486) =12.85, p<.001), but did not differ as a function of study intervention or study completion. When condoms were provided in anonymous locations in the clinic, participants were more likely to take condoms (F (1, 281) =7.46, p=.01). Positive attitudes about condom use also increased over time (F (3, 1024) =17.41, p<.001). They were not related to study intervention, but they were related to completion of their assigned intervention (F (3, 1024) =2.62, p=.05). This presentation concludes with a discussion of clinical implications for these results.

Related protocols: CTN-0018