9th International AIDS Conference Berlin, Germany — June 6-11, 1993

Int Conf AIDS 1993 Jun 6-11; 9:132 (abstract no. WS-D29-4)
Ebrahim S, Hira SK, Chinikima K; National STD Cont. Prog/Univ. Teaching Hosp., Lusak.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of condom (CON) in reducing STD episodes, to evaluate the impact of CON promotion in Lusaka among STD clients.

METHODS: 500 consecutive STD patients (PT) at the OPD followed up for 6 months with CON intervention.

RESULTS: M(ale):F(emale) is 3:1.40% M & 50% F married. PT acquiring STD outside their normal residence doubled among M (79%) & F (47%). A 3rd of F were unemployed housewives. Though 79% had never used CON, 95% accepted CON 65% of CON refusers were F. 30% came for return visits (12% in '89) and all took more supply of CON, compared to only 1/3 in '89. During 14.5 PT years of follow up 38% acquired new STD, i.e. 4.2 new episodes per PT year. Significantly those who used CON regularly (18%) had no new STD episodes, while refusers & irregular users had 5-7 new STD per year.

CONCLUSION: There are some changes in the socio-demographic determinants of STD in Lusaka. Initial CON acceptability is very high and increased from last year. CON are every effective in reducing new STD episodes if used during all sexual contacts. However, the %age of persistent CON users is very low. Preventive counseling & education is to be strengthened.

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