The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #60263

Jebose O. Okwumabua, PhD¹, Terry Neal, Outreach Spec'st², and Shelia McFarland, P Case Manager². (1) Human Movement Sciences and Education, The University of Memphis, Elma Roane Field House, 495 Zach Curlins, Memphis, TN 38152, (901) 678-4953, ookwumab@memphis.edu, (2) HIV/AIDS Outreach, New Directions, Inc., 4466 Elvis Presley, Suite 310, Memphis, TN 38116

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HIV disproportionately affects African Americans living in poverty in metropolitan areas. The Tennessee 2001 HIV Prevention Plan identified African American females of childbearing age as the highest priority for HIV/AIDS prevention in Tennessee. The issues and barriers toward condom use among the poor and underserved who are at high risk for HIV/AIDS are well documented. The present study examined the efficacy of an intervention on attitudes and norms, intentions, and self-efficacy concerning condom use among high risk African American females of childbearing age living in poverty. Sixty-three (63) participants were drawn from four high risk zip code areas in Memphis, Tennessee. Participants’ ranged in age from 13 to 56 years (mean age = 36.6 years). Program activities included group educational intervention and individual level counseling, using the Behavioral Counseling Model. Pre and post intervention questionnaires were administered in group or individual settings using interview assisted approach. A paired t-test was performed on data to gauge differences in mean scores at pre and post intervention points. Findings suggest participants’ increased confidence toward using condoms everytime they have sex (p<.028), refuse to have sex if partner has no condoms (p<.050), and toward obtaining money for condoms (p<.033) at post program intervention than they were at baseline. However, participants’ confidence declined concerning their beliefs that condoms should be used by a person their age who is sexually active. The authors will outline methods of recruiting participants, discuss challenges and strategies to overcome barriers, as well as implications for HIV prevention education, testing, and counseling with special populations.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to: (
• describe the efficacy of an intervention aimed to affect attitudes, intentions, and self-efficacy concerning condom use among high risk African American females of childbearing age; and (
• recognize the issues and barriers toward condom use among the poor and underserved populations who are at high risk for HIV/AIDS.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: New Directions, Inc. HIV/AIDS Outreach 4466 Elvis Presley Memphis, TN 38116
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.