• H Liu, J Xie, W Yu, W Song, Z Gao, Z Ma, and R Detels.
• Department of Epidemiology, University of California, Los Angeles School of Public Health, USA.
• J. Acquir. Immune Defic. Syndr. Hum. Retrovirol. 1998 Sep 1;19(1):80-8.

ObjectiveAlthough the recent spread of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in China has been associated with sexual activities, little information has been available about sexual behavior in rural areas with high HIV prevalence. Studies identifying high-risk sexual behaviors are needed to formulate effective prevention programs.MethodsA cross-sectional study design was used to measure sexual activities using a two-stage cluster sampling method. A two-part anonymous questionnaire was used. Sensitive questions related to sexual behavior were administered using a tape recorder, earphones, and an answer sheet which did not include the text.ResultsIn total, 1057 subjects were interviewed. Among 886 sexually active individuals, 7.8% had >1 sexual partner, 22.8% had premarital sex, 2.4% had anal intercourse, 4.1% had oral intercourse, and 2.3% had both anal and oral intercourse. Less than 2% reported past or current sexually transmitted diseases. Overall, 10.4% used condoms; only 11.2% for every sexual act. History of premarital and extramarital sex was higher in younger people.ConclusionsSexual norms in rural China are changing rapidly and high-risk sexual behavior among young rural residents is increasing. Strategies to prevent HIV/AIDS should include education to promote delayed onset of sexual activity, safer sexual behavior, and condom use.

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