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Jeffrey H Herbst, PhD, Mary Spink Neumann, PhD, and Cynthia M. Lyles, PhD. Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, CDC, 1600 Clifton Road, Mailstop E37, Atlanta, GA 30333, 404-6395389, jherbst@cdc.gov
Background: Behavioral interventions that effectively promote maintenance of safer sex are important tools in fighting the HIV/AIDS epidemic. This presentation evaluates whether theory-based interventions are associated with intervention efficacy by means of a meta-analysis of behavioral interventions designed to reduce sexual risk behaviors of men who have sex with men (MSM). Method: A comprehensive search of electronic bibliographic databases, relevant journals, international registries, reference lists of articles, and contacts with authors yielded 20 controlled intervention trials reported in English from 1988 through July 2003. All studies evaluated intervention effects on reducing unprotected anal intercourse (UAI). Results: The results of random-effects models showed that theory-based interventions were associated with significantly greater reductions in UAI (17 studies; OR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.55—0.77) than interventions not reporting behavioral theory (3 studies; OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.61—1.75). Examination of specific theories indicated that Diffusion of Innovations Theory (3 studies; OR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.47—0.83) and Model of Relapse Prevention (8 studies; OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.47—0.78) were significantly associated with intervention efficacy. These theoretical models will be described in terms of how they translate into a better understanding of HIV risk behavior, and how theory can be used to develop and implement core components of HIV prevention interventions. Conclusions: Results from the HIV/AIDS prevention literature for MSM suggest that efficacious behavioral interventions incorporate a guiding theoretical model. An understanding of an intervention’s theoretical basis can serve as an important guide when adapting or tailoring interventions into useful public health practice.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to
Keywords: HIV Interventions, Theory
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.