[AIDS prevention in homosexuals in Switzerland: adaptation to risks according to type of partner].
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effectiveness of AIDS prevention and modes of adaptation to risk among gay men. Swiss results are presented from an international study conducted in 8 European countries.


METHODS
A self-administered questionnaire was published in gay magazines and distributed by gay organizations and clubs. 934 questionnaires were returned in Switzerland.


RESULTS
More than 80% of the respondents report no risk behaviours in the last 12 months. Among all respondents three main modes of adaptation to risk were found: avoidance (no partner, no penetration), protection (condom use), non-use of condoms by stable couples (this assumes an agreement between partners). With casual partners 39% avoid penetration, 49% use condoms and 12% do not use them consistently. With stable partners penetration is more frequent; protection and non use of condoms are found with equal frequency. Nevertheless, 10% of those who report always using condoms say that they have been exposed to a risk, while a third of those who do not always use condoms admitted having taken such a risk.


CONCLUSIONS
Prevention campaigns must continue and focus especially on factors linked to the non use of condoms in couples in stable relationships (poor communication, exaggerated trust).
Moreau-Gruet
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F
Institut universitaire de médecine sociale et préventive, Lausanne.
Dubois-Arber
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F
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000517:prevention & control*; D017280:Condoms; D018451:Homosexuality, Male / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D012309:Risk-Taking; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D012747:Sexual Partners
La prévention du sida chez les homosexuels en Suisse: adaptation au risque de sida selon le type de partenaire.