Abstract | BACKGROUND: Young women often have diverse options for addressing their reproductive health and other health needs in urban settings. In Brazil, they may access care through the government-run Family Health Program (FHP). Understanding factors associated with service utilization can enhance access to and delivery of appropriate services. OBJECTIVES: To describe demographic, behavioural and clinical characteristics of young women accessing services through FHP in Vitória, Brazil. METHODS: From March to December 2006, women aged 18-29 years were recruited into a population-based, household survey. Responses were analysed to assess previous 6 months utilization of FHP services in this population and characteristics associated with accessing care through this public family practice model. RESULTS: Of 1200 eligible women identified, 1029 enrolled (85.7%). Median age was 23 (interquartile range 20-26) years, 42.7% were married or cohabitating with a male partner. A majority (72%) accessed FHP services in the preceding 6 months, principally for routine and gynaecological visits. Factors independently associated with seeking FHP included: ever tested for human immunodeficiency virus, using anal sex as contraceptive method and reporting a current vaginal discharge. Prior commercial sex work, previous diagnosis with an sexually transmitted infection or using oral sex as a contraceptive method were associated with less use of FHP services. CONCLUSIONS: A public option for delivery of FHP has attracted wide utilization across a cross-section of young women in Vitoria, Brazil. Greater sensitization to specific practices and needs of this population, especially around reproductive health, could further enhance the services provided by family practitioners.
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Authors | Angelica E Miranda, Michael E St Louis, Ninive C Figueiredo, Ildes Milbratz, Kimberly Page-Shafer |
Journal | Family practice
(Fam Pract)
Vol. 26
Issue 6
Pg. 493-500
(Dec 2009)
ISSN: 1460-2229 [Electronic] England |
PMID | 19770219
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural)
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Topics |
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Brazil
- Family Practice
- Female
- Humans
- Interviews as Topic
- Needs Assessment
(organization & administration)
- Patient Acceptance of Health Care
- Reproductive Medicine
- Urban Population
- Young Adult
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