Theory-Based HIV Risk Reduction Counseling for Sexually Transmitted Infection Clinic Patients in Cape Town, South Africa

Abstract

In Brief Background: 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. A randomized clinical trial of a single session theory-based risk reduction counseling intervention dem-onstrated positive behavior change effects in a sexually transmitted infections clinic in Cape Town, South Africa.