Author/Authors :
Nehra، Ritu نويسنده Department of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India , , Bagga، Rashmi نويسنده Department of Obstetrics, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India , , Sethi، Sunil نويسنده Department of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India , , Sharma، Sunil نويسنده Department of Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India , , Jones، Deborah نويسنده , , Weiss، Stephen M. نويسنده Department of Obstetrics, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India ,
Abstract :
Background: HIV in India is transmitted primarily by heterosexual contact. The present study sought to test the feasibility of a group HIV/STI risk reduction intervention among heterosexual couples in India.
Methods: Focus groups and key informant interviews were used in 2008 to cul-turally tailor the intervention. Thirty sexually active and HIV/STI negative cou-ples were enrolled and assessed regarding risk behavior and sexual barrier acceptability. Gender-concordant group sessions used cognitive behavioral strategies for HIV/STI prevention.
Results: At baseline, male condom use was low (36%); no participants reported use of female condoms or vaginal gels. HIV knowledge was low; women had more HIV knowledge and more positive attitudes towards condom use than men. Post-intervention, willingness to use all barrier products (t = 10.0, P < .001) and intentions to avoid risk behavior increased (t = 5.62, P < .001).
Conclusion: This study illustrates the feasibility of utilizing a group intervention to enhance HIV/STI risk reduction among Indian couples.
