Sexual practices, barriers to condom use and its consistent use among long distance truck drivers in Nigeria

Abstract

Among the long distance truck drivers in Nigeria, a major group that transmits HIV, the use of male latex condoms is generally low and erratic. To effectively promote their consistent use, it was necessary to understand the drivers’ sexual practices, experience of barriers to condom use and HIV/AIDS-related attitudes. Four hundred and twelve long distance truck drivers were selected and interviewed in major truck stops along the country highways. The interview explored the drivers condom use barriers, their demographic characteristics, HIV/AIDS-related attitudes and practices. The drivers noted that their major barriers experienced were that condoms reduced their sexual satisfaction, caused health problems for them, and hindered their sexual interest. About 70% of the drivers knew about condoms HIV preventive measure, but only 9% consistently used them. The drivers that acknowledged that they always used a condom, had secondary education, were less likely to report that a condom was inconveniencing or caused health problems, rarely used local decoctions to improve sexual energy, and frequently listened to the radio. In conclusion, it is necessary to intensify condom education for the drivers through the radio, establish counselling centres, tailor counselling to reduce the barriers, and provide free condoms for the drivers.