Prevalence of risky sexual behaviours in the adult population of Colombia

Objectives To estimate the prevalence of risky sexual behaviors in Colombia and their relation to sociodemographic characteristics in the adult population. Methods Secondary data source study using the 2007 National Health Survey. The sample was comprised of 29 760 persons aged 18 to 69 years and selected with probabilistic, stratified, multiphasic and by conglomerate sampling. Results Data showed a high prevalence of risky sexual behavior in the Colombian population, in terms of number of sexual partners, use of condoms and consumption of alcohol or drugs during the sexual intercourse, mainly in men, singles, in the 18-24 age group, and in subjects without social insurance. Conclusions The study revealed that the young men was the most risky group and highlighted the importance of taking cultural determinants such as male chauvinism and promiscuity and the low risk perception for STD/HIV in stable couples into account by the sexual and reproductive promotion programs.