Kamya RM, Ssali A, Barton T, Mbidde EK, Ziegler J, Hearst N; International Conference on AIDS.
Int Conf AIDS. 1993 Jun 6-11; 9: 925 (abstract no. PO-D29-4244).
Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
OBJECTIVES: The prevalence of consistent condom use in Uganda is one of the lowest in Africa (about 10%). To identify barriers to condom use. To elicit male opinion leader's views and suggestions regarding condom usage and promotion. METHODS: Focus groups were used to conduct three rounds of discussions, each about 90 minutes and attended by 10 male opinion leaders from Bwaise. The discussions centered on: 1) attitudes toward condoms for disease prevention; 2) barriers to condom use; 3) with what sexual partners and what sexual situations condoms may be used; and 4) views and suggestions regarding condom promotion in the area. RESULTS: Respondents had positive attitudes to condom usage with extra-marital relationships (marital partner defined as someone a man fully provides for financially), and especially with casual partners. The most frequently mentioned problem was lack of education about proper use and effectiveness of condoms. Participants denied believing in common condom-related myths in Uganda such as: "Condoms can disappear inside a woman and she has to be operated on to remove it," or "Condoms have small holes that could allow a germ to go through." Condoms available now in drug shops and private clinics need more diversified outlets. Reliable condoms that do not break easily are expensive; there is need for government to recommend and popularize a uniform, reliable and cheap condom. Government, religious leaders, and other concerned bodies should not preach conflicting messages about condoms, and education should be targeted by gender and age strata. CONCLUSIONS: Lack of education about and familiarity with condoms and their cost were prominent barriers to using condoms. Further study and effective interventions are urgently needed in this urban Ugandan population.
Publication Types:
Keywords:
- Africa
- Attitude
- Condoms
- Data Collection
- Delivery of Health Care
- Female
- Focus Groups
- Humans
- Male
- Sexual Partners
- Students
- Uganda
- education
Other ID:
UI: 102207543
From Meeting Abstracts