Influence of individual, relationship and contextual factors on condom use among a sample of heterosexual Latino men living in new settlement areas

Latinos are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS. Addressing this disparity is especially important as the US experiences dramatic growth of its Latino population. New demographic trends indicate that Latino population growth is concentrated in less traditional settlement areas including rural regions in the Northwest and Southeast. New immigrants to these areas are more likely to be male, young in age and face unique challenges that may influence their sexual risk behavior such as social isolation, familial disruption, high levels of poverty, poor access to care and exposure to racism and discrimination. Research on this emerging population of male Latinos is, however, limited. This study examined the influence of individual, relationship and contextual factors on condom use among a convenience sample of heterosexual Latino men living in rural Oregon. Data come from structured in-person interviews with 246 young Latino men who were sexually active and recent immigrants. Interviews were conducted by bilingual/bicultural male interviewers. Consistency of condom use in the past 90 days varied with 25%, 42% and 33% of men reporting no condom use, some condom use and consistent condom use, respectively. Findings from bivariate analyses indicated that men reporting greater levels of perceived discrimination overall, perceived discrimination in health care settings, and medical mistrust were significantly less likely to use condoms consistently. Additionally, more positive attitudes toward condoms, higher condom use self-efficacy and higher levels of relationship commitment were significantly associated with condom use. Findings from multivariate analyses and implications for public health programs, policies and services will be discussed.