Seattle, Washington – A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Washington has shed light on the declining use of condoms among sexually active gay men. The study, published in the journal AIDS and Behavior, analyzed data from the American Men’s Internet Survey spanning from 2014 to 2019. The research focused on men engaging in condomless anal sex without being on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
Over the years, the number of men partaking in condomless sex increased by an average of 2.2% annually. The rise was more significant among younger men, with those aged 15-24 experiencing a 7.2% yearly increase, and Hispanic men seeing an 18% rise. Despite the uptick in condomless sex, the study found that condom use still outweighed the use of PrEP, possibly due to various barriers to accessing the medication.
Interestingly, the majority of men surveyed viewed condoms as highly effective in preventing HIV transmission, with 60% considering them “very effective” and 36% deeming them “somewhat effective.” However, 24% admitted to never using condoms, while 50% reported sometimes or always using them, leaving a portion who rarely used them.
Lead author Steven Goodreau, a professor of anthropology, emphasized the benefits of both PrEP and condoms in HIV prevention. He acknowledged the convenience of PrEP but highlighted the importance of continuous education and awareness surrounding condom use to lower HIV transmission rates. Goodreau also underscored the significance of inclusive sex education, particularly for young gay and bisexual men.
In an effort to combat HIV transmission, the Biden administration announced plans for a nationwide delivery program for PrEP totaling $9.8 billion over ten years. While such initiatives are commendable, Goodreau stressed the need to reevaluate the promotion of condom use alongside PrEP. He urged for candid discussions on the significance of condoms as a foundational element in HIV prevention for decades and the necessity of revisiting their role in conjunction with emerging prevention methods.
Moreover, Goodreau suggested that dating apps could play a role in promoting condom use as a preference, noting that social norms heavily influence individuals’ decisions regarding safe sex practices. With the ongoing battle against HIV transmission, he emphasized the importance of reinforcing condom use as a crucial aspect of a multi-faceted approach to HIV prevention.