Factors associated with condom use in Kenya: a test of the health belief model.

ABSTRACT

This study examined specific cultural beliefs and knowledge about HIV as well as tested components of the Health Belief Model in relation to condom use in Kisumu, Kenya. Interviews were conducted with 223 participants at six governmental and private clinics. Although 75% had engaged in intercourse during the preceding month, fewer than 20% had used a condom. For both men and women, perceived barriers was the only component of the Health Belief Model significantly associated with condom use, with greater perceived barriers being associated with lower frequency of condom use (p < .05). Additionally, individuals with more education and HIV/AIDS knowledge were less likely to endorse stigmatizing beliefs toward HIV/AIDS (p < .001), whereas people who believe that HIV originated in the United States were more likely to endorse these stigmatizing beliefs (p <.002). Nearly everyone (97%) reported that AIDS is the disease that scares them most, suggesting that educational efforts have successfully communicated the severity of this disease. Future intervention efforts must now focus more extensively on addressing stigmatizing beliefs and providing education to overcome barriers to condom use.