Results of a randomized controlled trial of a peer mentor HIV/STI prevention intervention for women over an 18 month follow-up

AIDS Behav. 2011 Nov;15(8):1654-63. doi: 10.1007/s10461-011-9943-9.

Abstract

Despite numerous behavioral interventions designed for women, rates of HIV and STIs are increasing. Interventions are needed that reach a large number of at-risk individuals. This study was a randomized clinical trial of a HIV/STI behavioral intervention conducted in Baltimore, MD, USA. Heterosexual women (n = 169) completed a baseline and three semiannual follow-up visits. Participants were randomized into a standard of care comparison condition or a Peer Mentor condition. At the 6-month follow-up, Peer Mentors were less likely to have multiple sex partners [AOR: 0.28 (95% CI: 0.13, 0.63)]. At the 18 month follow-up assessment, Peer Mentors increased their condom use during vaginal [AOR: 0.47 (95% CI: 0.25, 0.87)] and anal sex [AOR: 0.24 (95% CI: 0.09, 0.68)] as well as with main [AOR: 0.41 (95% CI: 0.21, 0.77)] and non-main partners [AOR: 0.33 (95% CI: 0.14, 0.79)]. Peer education is a sustainable approach to change risky sexual behaviors.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Baltimore
  • Communication
  • Condoms / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control*
  • HIV Infections / psychology
  • Health Education / methods
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Mentors / psychology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Peer Group*
  • Program Evaluation
  • Risk Reduction Behavior
  • Risk-Taking
  • Sexual Behavior*
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / psychology
  • Social Support
  • Young Adult