Beyond condoms : alternative approaches to HIV prevention /

The male condom, along with reduction in the number of sexual partners or outright abstinence, has been the mainstay of HIV prevention. The male condom has its drawbacks and detractors, however. Careful review of the HIV prevention literature suggests that, although behavioral intervention focusing on consistent condom use can produce significant behavior change, the majority of participants in these studies do not change their behavior completely, and many do not change at all. Hence, there is a need to promote alternatives in a serious way. A growing view in HIV prevention is that the one-size-fits-all approach may not be the most effective public health strategy. Rather, different approaches or combinations of approaches may be optimal for particular individuals in diverse life circumstances. These approaches do not contradict condom use; most of them would be improved in effectiveness if combined with condom use. The contributors to this volume bring together several alternative approaches, reviewing effectiveness and feasibility data and making specific suggestions for needed research. Some of the alternatives presented include the female condom, social change, use of antidepressant medications, treatment of sexually transmitted infections, and treatment of HIV disease. Suitable for all levels of readers. J. M. Howe AIDS Information Center, VA Headquarters (DC)