Multi-media campaign exposure effects on knowledge and use of condoms for STI and HIV/AIDS prevention in Uganda

Author(s): Bessinger R, Katende C, Gupta N

Year: 2003

Abstract:
This paper evaluated the influences of multi-media Behavior Change Communication campaigns on knowledge and use of condoms for prevention of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections in target areas of Uganda. Data were drawn from the 1997 and 1999 Delivery of Improved Services for Health Evaluation Surveys, which collected information from representative samples of women and men of reproductive age in the districts served by the DISH project. Logistic regressions were used to assess the associations between BCC exposure and condom knowledge and use, controlling for individuals' background characteristics. While there was some evidence of bias of self-report, results indicated that exposure to BCC messages, especially via radio, was strongly associated with higher condom knowledge and use. A dose-response effect between the number of media channels and condom knowledge was observed. Certain gender differences were also found, with message content seemingly more important in terms of instilling safer sex practices.