The Open Reproductive Science Journal

2008, 1 : 45-50
Published online 2008 December 18. DOI: 10.2174/1874255600801010045
Publisher ID: TORSJ-1-45

Factors Influencing Condom Use Among Sexually Transmitted Infection Clinic Patients in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Obinna N. Nnedu , Staci McCorvey , Sheila Campbell-Forrester , Janice Chang , Hamisu M. Salihu and Pauline E. Jolly
Department of Epidemiology at the School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, RPHB 217. 1665 Univ Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.

ABSTRACT

The use of condoms can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. We conducted this study to determine factors that impact condom use among patients attending an STI clinic in Montego Bay, Jamaica. A questionnaire containing sections on socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of STIs and HIV, preventive measures for STI/HIV transmission and sexual practices including condom use was administered to 212 participants. Using logistic regression, we determined the relationship between the different factors and condom use during the last sexual episode. Approximately 43% of study participants reported condom use during the last sexual episode. Employment (OR=2.2; 95%CI=1.1-4.1) and greater knowledge of STIs (OR=1.9, 95%CI=1.02-3.6) were associated with increased likelihood of condom use during the last sexual episode. Having multiple sexual partners was associated with decreased likelihood to report condom use (OR=0.3, 95%CI=0.1- 0.9). Also, persons belonging to a religious organization were less likely to report condom use (OR=0.5, 95%CI=0.2-0.9). The results of this study can be used in formulating effective strategies to increase condom use in Montego Bay. This would decrease the transmission of STIs and HIV.

Keywords:

Condom, STI, HIV.