Correlates of condom failure among adolescent males: an exploratory study.
OBJECTIVE
To identify the prevalence and correlates of condom failure (defined as breakage or slipping off in the past 90 days) among a sample of adolescent males (15 to 21 years of age).


METHODS
A cross-sectional study of 481 condom-using males residing in three US cities (Atlanta, GA, Providence RI, Miami FL). Data were collected, in the years 2000 and 2001, using audio computer-assisted self-interviewing technology. Prevalence ratios were used to determine the strength and significance of bivariate associations between ten assessed correlates and condom failure. Correlates achieving a screening level of significance were entered into a multivariate model that was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (AOR).


RESULTS
Recent condom failure was reported by 34.1%. Younger adolescents were about one-third less likely to report condom failure (AOR = 0.66; P = 0.4). Adolescents reporting multiple sex partners were about 80% more likely to report failure (AOR = 1.84; P = 0.09). Adolescents indicating they had sex with someone on the same day they met the person were about 80% more likely to report failure (AOR = 1.77; P = 0.02). Finally, adolescents indicating recent problems obtaining condoms were about 70% more likely to report failure (AOR = 1.69; P = 0.1). Failure was not less common among those reporting a history of STD infection or those ever impregnating a partner.


CONCLUSIONS
Because adolescent males may commonly experience condom failure, targeted clinic- and community-based programs designed to reduce user error could be an important aspect of preventing pregnancy and the spread of STDs.
Crosby
Richard A
RA
Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, GA 30322, USA. crosby@uky.edu
Diclemente
Ralph J
RJ
Wingood
Gina M
GM
Salazar
Laura F
LF
Rose
Eve
E
Levine
David
D
Brown
Larry
L
Lescano
Celia
C
Pugatch
David
D
Flanigan
Timothy
T
Fernandez
Isa
I
Schlenger
William
W
Silver
Barabra J
BJ
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D017280:Condoms; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004868:Equipment Failure; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012650:Self Disclosure; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States; D014505:Urban Population