Objective: To determine the effectiveness of clinical and prevention club teen pregnancy prevention programs. Methods: Program staff administered pen-and-paper surveys to participants in MCTP's 3 affiliated programs at the beginning of their participation, and again after a 6 to 9 month interval. The survey was based on CDC's PMEDS, and developed with program staff input. Since the response rate for follow-up surveys was low (16%), changes in participant attitudes and behaviors were examined by comparing "new" participants, those who reported being in programs less than one month, to "older" participants who had been in program for more than one month. Analyses were done using SPSS. Results: 536 adolescents completed initial surveys, 44% of whom were new participants. Half (48%) of the older participants had been involved in program for over one year. Family planning clinic program clients showed the greatest differences between new and older participants: 45% of new vs. 63% of older had used condoms at last intercourse (p=.047), 11% vs 2% had not used contraception due to partner objections (p=.048), and 75% vs 95% had received free condoms (p=.002). Older prevention club program participants showed increased condom use at last intercourse, but this did not reach statistical significance; for example, 70% older participants vs. 57% new had used condoms (p=.41). Discussion: Our evaluation highlights barriers to evaluating community-based pregnancy prevention programs. Although cross sectional data suggests that some programs affect pregnancy related behaviors, actual program impact is difficult to measure without follow-up data.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants will understand issues in teen pregnancy prevention evaluation
Keywords: Adolescents, Community Programs
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.