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

Abstract #68726

Suzanne I. Knecht, WHNP, PhD, University of Michigan, 5825 Biscayne Drive, Alexandria, VA 22303, 703-317-1105, sik@umich.edu

Context: Heterosexually active women are at high risk of STDs, yet little data exist tracking women's use of freely distributed condoms, and no previous studies have tested the use of a specific condom-carrying pouch for women.

Methods: A convenience sample (N=130) of women aged 18 to 25 completed a written condom use behavior survey in bars, hair salons, and urban downtowns in S.E. Michigan and consented to be phoned for follow up in 6 weeks. Participants were randomized to 2 groups; Experimental group members were immediately sent the condom promotion intervention containing twenty-five free condoms, a fashionable silk condom-carrying pouch and condom use instructions. 103 (78% of participants) completed a follow-up survey.

Results: Experimental group members were 2.8 (p = .047) times as likely to use a condom at last sex as compared the Control group. African American women in both the experimental and control groups increased condom use more than any other racial group (p = .018) and were 8.0 times more likely than Others to have used a condom at last sex at follow-up. Experimental group members increased condom use with main partners. Both the experimental and control groups increased condom use with casual partners. No differences in baseline condom use or intervention effects were seen based on hormonal contraceptive use, age, or STD history.

Conclusion: Statistically significant results suggest the intervention was effective with a medium effect size. The innovative condom promotion intervention helped women increase condom use over a 6-week period, regardless of hormonal contraceptive use, age, or STD history.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss the significant increase in condom use reported by participants after the intervention.
• Apply commerical marketing techniques that appeal to women to enhance community based health promotion initiatives.
• List women's top three requests for help from public health professionals to increase condom use.

Keywords: Condom Use, Social Marketing

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Condoms were donated by Durex, though intervention not thought to be brand specific.
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.