Results of a Sexual Risk Behavior Assessment for African American Adolescents; Project iMPPACS

Purpose: Determine the prevalence of sexual risk-taking behaviors of African-American adolescents in Columbia, South Carolina as a component of the NIH-funded Project iMPPACS, a multi-level, multi-site HIV/STI prevention intervention.

Subjects: Data were collected on 452 (250 Females; 202 Males) African-American adolescents (age 14-17) before program intervention.

Design: A cross-sectional design was utilized with baseline measurement data collected over one year.

Methods: Audio Computer Assisted Self Interview Surveys assessed baseline measurements for sexual behaviors (oral, anal, and vaginal intercourse) and condom usage. Subjects submitted urine samples for testing and subsequent treatment if positive for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and/or Trichomoniasis.

Analysis: Frequencies and percentages were acquired to determine oral, anal, & vaginal intercourse and sexual-act specific condom use.

Results: Of participants who have participated in vaginal sexual intercourse, approximately 62% reported at least one incident of no condom use in the past 3 months. Of participants who reported engaging in anal sex, approximately 66% reported at least one incident of no condom use in the past 3 months. Of participants who reported engaging in oral sex, approximately 80% reported at least one incident of no condom use in the past 3 months.

Conclusion: African-American adolescents are at conspicuous risk of acquiring STI's and engaging in high risk sexual behaviors. Programmatic efforts should be directed towards decreasing risk behaviors via effective multi-faceted interventions and policies.