Condom use among males (15-49 years) in Lower Egypt: knowledge, attitudes and patterns of use.

We conducted a cross-sectional study on a randomly selected sample of 2304 males aged 15-49 years from 4 governorates in Lower Egypt to assess their condom use and knowledge and attitudes towards condom use. Condoms were considered an effective method of contraception and prevention of transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) by 60.5% and 60.0% respectively. Only 23.9% had ever used condoms, mainly for contraception, but 26.8% would consider using them in the future. A quarter reported knowing how to use condoms properly. Obstacles to condom use included perceived lack of need (75.7%), rejection by partner (57.6%) and hazards of condoms (31.9%). The majority knew about HIV/AIDS (90.8%) but a few felt at risk of STIs (11.2%) or HIV infection (10.3%).