Pattern of Condom Usage among Male and Female Youths in Nigeria from 1999 to 2008

Condom usage is one of the most effective strategies for combating the spread of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Despite increased sexual knowledge, adolescents in Nigeria are poor condom users. They are less likely than adults to consistently use condoms or other methods of protection that could reduce their chances of infection. The objective of the study was to describe the trend in the condom usage and to determine the association between demographic variables and condom usage among youths aged 15-24 years from1999-2008.

A comparative cross-sectional population based study was carried out in which a secondary data review analyses of Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 1999, 2003 and 2008 data were done. Statistical package of social science version 17.0 was used for determining frequencies, chi square and the p-values.

There was a significant increase in the usage of condom from 8.2% in 1999 to 9.3% in 2008 to 10.5% in 2008 among the female youths, though the percentages are still very low. There was an insignificant increase in condom usage among the male youths from 31.1% in 1999 to 38.7% in 2003 and then a decrease to 36.8% in 2008. There was significant association between the urban dwellers, 20-24 years age group, Christians, literate and single female youths and condom usage over the years while the rural dwellers, single and literate male youths experienced significant increase in condom usage over the years at p<0.05.

Condom usage by youths significantly increased over the years. However, the increase is still considered low and not enough to effectively reduce the prevalence of HIV and AIDS. Religion, marital status, age group, education and literacy are variables that influenced condom usage by young people. Campaign on the usage of condom during sexual intercourse among young people at every level of education, urban or rural residence, age group and religion should be intensified.