The Efficacy of a Relationship-based HIV/STD Prevention Program for Heterosexual Couples

Overview

Journal Am J Public Health

Specialty Public Health

Date 2003 May 30

PMID 12773363

Citations 122

Authors

Nabila El-Bassel

Susan S Witte

Louisa Gilbert

Elwin Wu

Mingway Chang

Jennifer Hill

Peter Steinglass

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Objectives: This study examined the efficacy of a relationship-based HIV/sexually transmitted disease prevention program for heterosexual couples and whether it is more effective when delivered to the couple or to the woman alone.

Methods: Couples (n = 217) were recruited and randomized to (1) 6 sessions provided to couples together (n = 81), (2) the same intervention provided to the woman alone (n = 73), or (3) a 1-session control condition provided to the woman alone (n = 63).

Results: The intervention was effective in reducing the proportion of unprotected and increasing the proportion of protected sexual acts. No significant differences in effects were observed between couples receiving the intervention together and those in which the woman received it alone.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates the efficacy of a relationship-based prevention program for couples at risk for HIV infection.

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