The researchers undertook the current study to examine correlates of consistent condom use with a main partner among heterosexual male injection drug users (IDUs).

Data from a multi-site sample of young IDUs were used to identify 1,770 sexually active men. Of these, 24 percent (n=429) reported an exclusive female partner, while 49 percent (n=862) reported both main and casual female partners. Reports of consistent condom use were low among both groups of men: 12 percent of those with a main partner, and 17 percent of those with multiple partners.

Multivariate analysis showed consistent condom use with a main partner across partnership patterns was directly associated with anticipating a positive response to requests for condom use and partner support of condom use. There was an inverse association between consistent condom use and the main partner's desire to become pregnant.

Among IDUs with an exclusive main female partner, there was an inverse association between consistent condom use and needle sharing with the main partner. Among those with multiple partners, consistent condom use with a main partner was inversely associated with injecting with a used needle and with intimate partner violence.

"The low prevalence of consistent condom use with main female partners among heterosexually active male IDUs indicates an increased risk for HIV transmission between men and their primary sex partners," the authors concluded. "Interventions for heterosexual males that are geared toward increasing condom use in primary relationships are warranted."

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