PRIVATE SEXUAL-BEHAVIOR, PUBLIC-OPINION, AND PUBLIC-HEALTH POLICY RELATED TO SEXUALLY-TRANSMITTED DISEASES - A US-BRITISH COMPARISON

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to characterize sexual behav ior and opinions about sex in the United States and Britain; implicati ons are discussed for effective public health policy regarding sexuall y transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States. Methods. Large-sca le national probability surveys conducted in the 2 countries detailed sexual behavior, opinions, and the prevalence of STDs. Results. In com parison with that of Britain, the US population has greater variabilit y in sexual behavior, less tolerant opinions about sexual behavior, an d a higher STD prevalence and lower condom usage among men. Conclusion s. The survey data show compelling evidence from both countries of a s trong association between number of sex partners and STD risk. In the United States relative to Britain, there is both greater dispersion in sexual behavior and a greater incidence of unconditional opposition t o certain sexual practices. The former implies a need for strong publi c health policy to address the risks of STDs, but the latter implies s trong opposition to that policy. This disjuncture between public healt h need and feasibility may contribute to the high US rate of STDs.