Determinants of condom use among young adults aged 15-24 years in the Africa Centre Demographic Surveillance Area in Kwazulu Natal, South Africa, 2005
Date
2009-02-11T10:56:44Z
Authors
Chimbindi, Natsayi Zanile
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Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
This study investigates the patterns and levels of condom use; the determinants of condom use
and of consistency of use among young adults aged 15-24 years in the Africa Centre
Demographic Surveillance Area (ACDSA) in 2005.
Methodology
Secondary data analysis of data from three sources of surveys conducted in ACDSA in 2005
was done. A sample of 4 157 respondents was analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analysis
was employed to compare determinants of condom use and of consistency of use.
Results
Condom use with the most recent partner in the last year was (51.7%). The main determinants
of condom use were partner age difference, residence of partner and assets. Having an older
partner than a same age partner was associated with less likely to use condoms (AOR=0.71
p=0.03 females, AOR=0.51 p=0.01 males). Those who were not residing with their partners
were more likely to use condoms than those residing with their partners (AOR=1.62 p=0.01
females, AOR=1.61 p=0.03 males). Having more than seven assets was associated with
increased chances of using condoms than those with less than seven assets (AOR=1.51 p<0.01
females, AOR=1.67 p<0.01 males). The key determinants of consistent condom use were: age,
sex and type of relationship. Females were less likely to use condoms consistently (AOR=0.63
p=0.02) and growing older was associated with lower consistent condom use (AOR=0.88
p<0.01 females, AOR=0.90 p<0.01 males). Being in a marital/cohabiting relationship was
associated with lower consistent condom use (AOR=0.68 p<0.01 both sexes and AOR=0.64
p=0.01 males) than those in non-marital/non-cohabiting relationship.
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Conclusion
Condom use differs between sexes and decreases with age probably because condoms are a
male determined method, high contraception use, poor negotiation skills for condom use, need
for children and formation of more stable relationships. A better socio-economic status
increases condom use. Consistent condom use is lower in marital relationships and when the
partner is older. This could be because of gender power inequalities in sexual relationships.
Description
Keywords
condoms, young adults, Kwazulu, Natal, South Africa