Changes in human immunodeficiency virus and sexually transmitted infections-related sexual risk taking among young Croatian adults: findings from the 2005 and 2010 population-based surveys
2011

Changes in Sexual Risk Taking Among Young Croatian Adults

Sample size: 2097 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ivan Landripet, Aleksandar Štulhofer, Valerio Baćak

Primary Institution: University of Zagreb

Hypothesis

To determine changes in sexual behaviors and other relevant characteristics related to HIV and STI risks among young Croatian adults.

Conclusion

Risky sexual practices remain common among young Croatian adults, indicating a need for school-based sex education.

Supporting Evidence

  • 85.2% of participants were sexually active in 2005, and 86.2% in 2010.
  • Condom use at first intercourse increased from 62.6% in 2005 to 70% in 2010.
  • Consistent condom use remained stable at about 20% across both years.

Takeaway

Young adults in Croatia are still taking risks with their sexual health, and many don't use condoms consistently, so teaching them about safe sex is really important.

Methodology

Two cross-sectional surveys were conducted in 2005 and 2010 with probabilistic and stratified sampling of young adults aged 18-24 and 18-25, respectively.

Potential Biases

Selection biases due to lower participation rates in 2010.

Limitations

Self-reporting may introduce bias, and the lower response rate in 2010 may affect generalizability.

Participant Demographics

Young adults aged 18-25, with a mix of genders and educational backgrounds.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.002

Confidence Interval

95%

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3325/cmj.2011.52.458

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication