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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Factors Associated with Condom Use among Young Adult Ecstasy Users

Hugh A. Klein, PhD1, Claire E. Sterk, PhD1, and Kirk W. Elifson, PhD2. (1) Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 401 Schuyler Road, Silver Spring, MD 20910, 301-588-8875, hughk@aol.com, (2) Department of Sociology, Georgia State University, General Classroom Building, Atlanta, GA 30303

PURPOSE: Most published research focusing on the HIV-related risks associated with the use of the drug, ecstasy, has been based on gay male samples. In that research, ecstasy use has been associated with greater involvement in a wide array of HIV-related risk practices. Little has been documented about the risks associated with the use of this drug in other populations. This study reports on the predictors of condom usage in a sample of young adult ecstasy users. METHOD: The study took place in the Atlanta metropolitan area between 2002 and 2004. 283 young adult ecstasy users completed face-to-face interviews assisted by computer-assisted structured interviewing (i.e., CASI). Street outreach efforts were used to identify potential study participants, with further expansion of the sample done via targeted sampling and ethnographic mapping procedures. RESULTS: Only 35.2% of all sex acts involved the use of protection. Using a multiple regression approach, five factors were found to be predictive of condom use: race (Caucasians used condoms less than other groups), income (lower income = greater condom use), relationship status (persons involved in relationships reported less condom use than those who were not “involved”), multiple sex partners (multiple sex partners = more condom use), and condom use self-efficacy (higher efficacy level = more condom use). CONCLUSIONS: Targeted outreach and intervention need to be done to reduce HIV risk levels among young adult ecstasy users. In particular, Caucasians, those of higher income, persons involved in romantic-type relationships, and those lacking in condom use self-efficacy need specific attention.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants in this session will be able to

Keywords: HIV Risk Behavior, Substance Abuse

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered

Handout (.ppt format, 77.5 kb)

HIV/AIDS, Children, And Adolescents

The 134th Annual Meeting & Exposition (November 4-8, 2006) of APHA