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Private sexual behavior, public opinion, and public health policy related to sexually transmitted diseases: A US-British comparison

Author

Listed:
  • Michael, R.T.
  • Wadsworth, J.
  • Feinleib, J.
  • Johnson, A.M.
  • Laumann, E.O.
  • Wellings, K.

Abstract

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to characterize sexual behavior and opinions about sex in the United States and Britain; implications are discussed for effective public health policy regarding sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States. Methods. Large- scale national probability surveys conducted in the 2 countries detailed sexual behavior, opinions, and the prevalence of STDs. Results. In comparison with that of Britain, the US population has greater variability in sexual behavior, less tolerant opinions about sexual behavior, and a higher STD prevalence and lower condom usage among men. Conclusions. The survey data show compelling evidence from both countries of a strong 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 to certain sexual practices. The former implies a need for strong public health policy to address the risks of STDs, but the latter implies strong opposition to that policy. This disjuncture between public health need and feasibility may contribute to the high US rate of STDs.

Suggested Citation

  • Michael, R.T. & Wadsworth, J. & Feinleib, J. & Johnson, A.M. & Laumann, E.O. & Wellings, K., 1998. "Private sexual behavior, public opinion, and public health policy related to sexually transmitted diseases: A US-British comparison," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 88(5), pages 749-754.
    • Handle: RePEc:aph:ajpbhl:1998:88:5:749-754_6
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    Cited by:

    1. Nian Liu & Zekai Lu & Ying Xie, 2021. "Factors Affecting the Public Acceptance of Extramarital Sex in China," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(11), pages 1-17, May.
    2. Ortiz-Hernández, Luis & Gómez Tello, Blanca Lilia & Valdés, Jesús, 2009. "The association of sexual orientation with self-rated health, and cigarette and alcohol use in Mexican adolescents and youths," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 69(1), pages 85-93, July.
    3. Hildebrandt, Timothy & Bode, Leticia & Ng, Jessica S.C., 2019. "Effect of 'lifestyle stigma' on public support for NHS-provisioned pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and preventative interventions for HPV and type 2 diabetes: a nationwide UK survey," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 101062, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.

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