About the project
The reduction of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is a priority area. Condoms remain the main protection against STIs when used correctly and consistently, yet there are many condom use barriers which reduce their usage, such as decreased sexual pleasure, fit-and-feel problems, lubrication issues and erection difficulties.
The UK Home-Based Intervention Strategy (HIS-UK) is a behaviour change condom promotion intervention for young men designed to enhance enjoyment of condom-protected intercourse, improve attitudes towards condoms, improve the correct and consistent use of condoms, and thereby reduce the risk of STIs. The programme gives out a kit containing different types of condoms and lubricants and asks men to experiment with the contents at home by themselves following condom use education and training. HIS-UK has two delivery models; digital delivery using an interactive website (eHIS), and face-to-face delivered by a trained health professional (proHIS).
To compare the effectiveness of HIS-UK delivered by proHIS and eHIS-UK to improve condom use experiences and reduce STI incidence, as compared to usual care, we aimed to
recruit 2231 men aged 16-25 years who are at STI risk through the non-use of condoms during sex with casual and/or new partners. Men were recruited from sexual health (SH)/Genitourinary (GUM) services and linked community SH/GUM outreach facilities within each site across England and Wales.
Participants were assigned at random to receive either proHIS, eHIS or usual condom care and are being followed up for up to 12 months during which they are asked at regular intervals about their sexual behaviour, condom use experiences and to take Chlamydia tests. We are also collecting health economic data to compare the resource use and cost-effectiveness of delivering HIS-UK by the two models to that of usual condom distribution care.
Visit the HIS-UK website >
Learn more about HIS-UK here >