Factors affecting condom usage among college students in South Central Kentucky
Kanekar, A.; Sharma, M.
International quarterly of community health education 28(4): 337-349
2007
ISSN/ISBN: 0272-684X PMID: 19193527 DOI: 10.2190/iq.28.4.fDocument Number: 205913
The absence of consistent and correct usage of condoms increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STI) and HIV/AIDS. However, most studies done to date across the nation indicate a low usage of condoms among college students. This study identifies protective and risk factors associated with condom use among college students. The National College Health Assessment was administered to a random sample of students at a state comprehensive university in south central Kentucky. Findings revealed that among the sexually active students, approximately half never used condoms during vaginal intercourse. Further, among students engaging in oral sex, an alarmingly high proportion (95%) reported never using a condom during this act. These findings, along with differences noted in various subgroups (gender, housing, class standing), and other risk behaviors (alcohol, illicit drug use) are discussed.