Community-level HIV intervention in 5 cities: Final outcome data from the CDC AIDS community demonstration projects

Objectives. This study evaluated a theory-based community-level interventio n to promote progress toward consistent condom and bleach use among selecte d populations at increased risk for HN infection in 5 US cities. Methods. Role-model stories were distributed, along with condoms and bleach , by community members who encouraged behavior change among injection drug users, their female sex partners, sex workers, non-gay-identified men who h ave sex with men. high-risk youth, and residents in areas with high sexuall y transmitted disease rates. Over a 3-year period, cross-sectional intervie ws (n = 15205) were conducted in 10 intervention and comparison community p airs. Outcomes were measured on a stage-of-change scale. Observed condom ca rrying and intervention exposure were also measured. Results. At the community level, movement reward consistent condom use with main (P < .05) and nonmain (P < .05) partners, as well as increased condom carrying (P < .0001), was greater in intervention than in comparison commu nities. At the individual level, respondents recently exposed to the interv ention were more likely to carry condoms and to have higher stage-of-change scores for condom and bleach use. Conclusions. The intervention led to significant communitywide progress tow ard consistent HIV risk reduction.