Trends of Indiana Public Opinion about Condom use for HIV Prevention—1993, 1998, and 2003

Abstract

This study identified the trends of Indiana public opinion about condom promotion and condom use for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention via statewide telephone probability surveys repeated in five-year intervals since 1993. There were 645 participants in 1993, 491 in 1998, and 496 in 2003. Results showed that many Indiana residents were still supportive of condom promotion. Their support for condom availability to and correct condom use instruction for teenagers has remained virtually the same with the vast majority being supportive. Public opinion in Indiana was consistent over the years regarding their agreement on the federal government's role in promoting condom use and their disagreement on viewing condom promotion as promoting sex. However, the public became less favorable to television networks airing condom commercials to help prevent the spread of HIV. Lastly, the public's disagreement about a person carrying a condom being viewed as having casual sex and agreement about the effectiveness of condoms in HIV prevention has steadily increased. In conclusion, public opinion about condom use for HIV prevention in Indiana has somewhat changed over time, which may subsequently impact condom education, condom promotion, and public health. Therefore, the trends should be continuously monitored with a view toward preventing HIV transmission.