Diminishing gender differences in condom use among a national sample of young Israeli men and women between 1993 and 2005

Background: Studies related to condom use among young adults consistently point to substantial gender disparities, although the use has generally increased. This study examined trends in condom use between 1993 and 2005 among 13,988 Israelis aged 1825 years and the associated sociodemographic factors. Methods: An HIV/AIDS Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice survey was self-administered to dischargees from Israel's compulsory military service. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess trends in condom use and the association over time of sociodemographic factors and sexual behaviors with consistent condom use. Results: During the 13-year period, consistent condom use increased among men (from 35% to 58%) and women (from 17% to 54%), almost eliminating the gender difference. Among both genders, consistent condom use was associated with being single, being older at the time of sexual debut, and being religious, and was inversely associated with age and education; however, gender differences were found in the strength of the associations over time. Conclusions: The excess risk of exposure of young women to lack of condom use has minimized, an unusual situation on international comparison, although population risk for HIV and sexually transmitted infections exists in Israel. Further understanding of factors influencing the decreasing gender differences is required to reorient and tailor HIV/AIDS interventions to most effectively reach young adults of both sexes.