Prevention: Reducing STIs in U.S. Clinics

VOICES/VOCES is a brief video-based intervention developed by HHD, with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It was created for use in STI clinics to reduce new infections and encourage condom use among heterosexual Latino and African American men and women, people who bear a disproportionate burden of the AIDS epidemic in the U.S.

The most effective intervention with clinic clients involves viewing a brief, engaging video followed by opportunities to practice preventive behaviors. Small group discussions and role-playing led by trained facilitators engage participants in realistic scenarios about the importance of condom use. This prevention strategy has been effective in reducing new STIs and encouraging condom use among African American and Latino men and women in high-risk circumstances.

Three additional videos have been developed to extend the use of the intervention to a broader range of audiences. Due to their success, CDC has disseminated the videos widely to community agencies as well as clinics nationwide.