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Canadian Journal of Public Health = Revue Canadienne de Santé Publique logoLink to Canadian Journal of Public Health = Revue Canadienne de Santé Publique
. 2003 Jul 1;94(4):287–291. doi: 10.1007/BF03403607

Factors Associated with Maintenance of Regular Condom Use Among Single Heterosexual Adults

A Longitudinal Study

Gaston Godin 112,✉, Hélène Gagnon 112, Léo-Daniel Lambert 112
PMCID: PMC6979863  PMID: 12873088

Abstract

Objective

The aims of this study were to describe behavioural and psychosocial characteristics of single heterosexuals towards regular condom use, and to identify factors associated with the maintenance of this behaviour over time.

Method

A cohort of 179 single heterosexual adults (83 men and 96 women, mean age: 32 years) was followed over a period of 2 years. The data were collected, by phone interviews, at baseline and 1 and 2 years later. The phone numbers were generated using a random digit strategy.

Results

The following changes were observed: over time fewer people were sexually active, but those who were, reported more often having had more than one sexual partner. No significant change was observed regarding condom use. The psychosocial variables remained stable during the study period. To have a favourable intention was the main factor associated with maintenance of condom use. Having had a STD, personal normative beliefs and positive attitude were also associated with regular condom use.

Discussion

Promotion strategies should highlight the importance of acting as a responsible person, reinforce the advantages of using condoms, and select strategies that favour the implementation of intention of using condoms.

Footnotes

Research funded by a grant from the Medical Research Council of Canada (MT-14485)

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