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S. Marie Harvey, DrPH, Center for the Study of Women in Society, University of Oregon, 1201 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, (541) 346-4120, mharvey@uoregon.edu and Sheryl Thorburn Bird, PhD, MPH, Department of Public Health, Oregon State University, 264 Waldo Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331-6406.
The effectiveness of vaginal microbicides and HIV vaccines to protect against HIV will depend not only on the development of efficacious products, but also on the willingness of individuals to use these methods. This study 1) examines intentions to use microbicides and to get vaccinated with a preventive HIV vaccine and 2) investigates which factors are most strongly associated with intentions to use these methods if they were available. A total of 214 college students who reported having had at least 1 sexual partner in their lifetime completed self-administered questionnaires that asked about microbicides, HIV preventive vaccines, and related topics. Although only 16% reported that they would be somewhat or extremely likely to use microbicides if they were available today, 47% reported they would get vaccinated for HIV. Bivariate analyses indicated that participants who perceived themselves to be at risk of HIV or STDs, reported more risk factors, were not currently married or cohabitating, or were less committed to their current partners had significantly greater intentions to use microbicides and to get vaccinated for HIV. In addition, those who had 2+ recent sexual partners, were more motivated to prevent HIV or STDs or reported having more “say” than their partner about protecting themselves from HIV and other STDs had significantly greater intentions to get vaccinated for HIV. Findings from multivariate analyses that assess the independent associations between these variables and intentions to use the two methods, and implications for the development of new HIV prevention methods will be presented.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to
Keywords: STD Prevention, HIV/AIDS
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.