Theory-based HIV risk reduction counseling for sexually transmitted infection clinic patients in Cape Town, South Africa

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Theory-based HIV risk reduction counseling for sexually transmitted infection clinic patients in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Human Sciences Research Council
Publisher Information: HSRC, 2025.
Publication Year: 2025
Subject Terms: Theory-based HIV risk reduction counseling for sexually transmitted infection clinic patients in Cape Town, South Africa
Description: South Africa has the world's fastest growing AIDS epidemic. There is an urgent need for effective HIV risk reduction interventions in South Africa. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to develop and test the potential efficacy of a brief theory-based HIV prevention counseling intervention for sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinic patients in South Africa. METHOD: STI clinic patients in Cape Town (N=228) were assessed at baseline and randomized to receive either: 1) a single 60-minute session motivational/skills-building HIV risk reduction counseling intervention or 2) a 20-minute HIV information/education session. Participants completed 1- and 3-month follow ups with 80% retention. RESULTS: The 60-minute motivational/skills risk reduction counseling demonstrated significantly greater risk reduction practices, lower rates of unprotected intercourse, and greater likelihood of receiving HIV testing after the intervention. CONCLUSIONS: Brief theory-based HIV prevention counseling may significantly reduce HIV risk behaviors for STI clinic patients in South Africa.
Document Type: Article
Language: English
DOI: 10.14749/30135268
Accession Number: edsair.doi...........c32b0fdfcafa003e863d7304de3651b2
Database: OpenAIRE
Description
Abstract:South Africa has the world's fastest growing AIDS epidemic. There is an urgent need for effective HIV risk reduction interventions in South Africa. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to develop and test the potential efficacy of a brief theory-based HIV prevention counseling intervention for sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinic patients in South Africa. METHOD: STI clinic patients in Cape Town (N=228) were assessed at baseline and randomized to receive either: 1) a single 60-minute session motivational/skills-building HIV risk reduction counseling intervention or 2) a 20-minute HIV information/education session. Participants completed 1- and 3-month follow ups with 80% retention. RESULTS: The 60-minute motivational/skills risk reduction counseling demonstrated significantly greater risk reduction practices, lower rates of unprotected intercourse, and greater likelihood of receiving HIV testing after the intervention. CONCLUSIONS: Brief theory-based HIV prevention counseling may significantly reduce HIV risk behaviors for STI clinic patients in South Africa.
DOI:10.14749/30135268