A Group Intervention for HIV/STI Risk Reduction among Indian Couples

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 culturally tailor th...

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Main Authors: Ritu Nehra (Author), Rashmi Bagga (Author), Deborah Jones (Author), Deepika (Author), Sunil Sethi (Author), Sunil Sharma (Author), Stephen M. Weiss (Author)
Format: Book
Published: Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, 2013-12-01T00:00:00Z.
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Summary: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 culturally tailor the intervention. Thirty sexually active and HIV/STI negative couples 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.
Item Description:10.5681/hpp.2013.017
2228-6497
2228-6497