Is growing up in a rural area associated with less HIV/STD-related risk?: a brief report from an internet sample
Abstract
This exploratory study compared selected HIV/STD-related risk variables (sexual behavior, condom use, STD diagnosis, and beliefs) between adults who grew up in a rural area and those who grew up in a non- rural area. Participants were recruited through an electronic mailing list of a large, internet-based sexual enhancement product company and completed a web-based questionnaire. A sample comprising 123 rural men and women and 1131 non–rural men and women, ages 18 to 39 years, were analyzed. No significant differences were found for any of the variables between those who grew up in a rural area compared to those who grew up in a non-rural area, although both groups reported HIV/STD risk behaviors. Hence, prevention education efforts appear justified in rural, as well urban areas.