Factors associated with HIV discussion and condom use with sexual partners in an underserved community in South Africa

We examined factors associated with discussing HIV and condom use with a sexual partner. Two cross- sectional surveys were conducted in 2004 prior to the implementation of an HIV awareness campaign in a South African community and in 2008 after a three- year education program. Overall, the proportion of individuals who had discussed HIV with a sexual partner increased from 76% in 2004 to 89% in 2008 (p <.001). Among respondents who had sex six months before completing the surveys, condom use significantly increased from 64% in 2004 to 79% in 2008 (p <.05). Respondents who discussed HIV with a sexual partner were more likely to use condoms than respondents who had not discussed HIV with a sexual partner (OR=2.08, 95% CI=1.16, 3.72). These findings indicate the importance of interventions aimed at promoting HIV awareness and discussion of HIV in communities with individuals at risk of acquiring HIV.