title: Condom use behaviours and correlates of use in the Botswana Defence Force.
abstract: Preventing HIV infection is a priority for militaries. HIV prevention research is needed to monitor existing programme, identify areas for modification, and develop new interventions. Correct and consistent condom use is highly effective against HIV. However, use among soldiers is lower than ideal. This study describes condom use behaviours and examines correlates of use in the Botswana Defence Force (BDF). Analyses were based on 211 male BDF personnel, aged 18-30, who completed a cross-sectional survey that collected baseline data for an intervention study. Results showed that 51% of participants reported always using condoms, 35% used condoms most times, and 14% used condoms occasionally/never. Condom use varied by partner type and was typically higher with casual partners in comparison to regular partners. After adjustment for age and marital status, factors associated with lower condom use included excessive alcohol use, perception that using condoms reduce sexual pleasure, and having a trusted partner. However, higher levels of HIV knowledge and reports of being circumcised were protective against lower condom use. HIV interventions aimed at increasing condom use in the BDF should address condom perceptions, alcohol abuse, and issues of trust. Innovative ways to increase condom use in this population should also be explored.
authors: Naval Health Research Center, Department of Defense HIV/AIDS Prevention Program, San Diego, USA.
authors: Bonnie Robin
authors: BR
authors: Tran
authors: Anne Goldzier
authors: AG
authors: Thomas
authors: Mooketsi
authors: M
authors: Ditsela
authors: Florin
authors: F
authors: Vaida
authors: Robert
authors: R
authors: Phetogo
authors: David
authors: D
authors: Kelapile
authors: Christina
authors: C
authors: Chambers
authors: Richard
authors: R
authors: Haubrich
authors: Richard
authors: R
authors: Shaffer
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001902:Botswana; D017280:Condoms / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000517:prevention & control*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D008889:Military Personnel; D012307:Risk Factors; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012747:Sexual Partners / Q000523:psychology*; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: Africa; HIV/AIDS; condom use; military; military populations; prevention; sexual behaviours; soldiers
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