Analysis of Sexually Transmitted Infections Prevention Campaigns between 2008 and 2020

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the sexually transmitted infections (STIs) prevention campaigns promoted by the Brazilian Ministry of Health between 2008 and 2020. Fifty-three campaigns from the digital archive were included in the directed content analysis. The analysis was conducted based on the concepts of Combination Prevention and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Condom use and STI testing were constantly promoted, to the detriment of alternative preventive behaviors. The TPB concepts in the campaigns suggest the compatibility of the materials with the theory. We conclude that the campaigns present the desirable aspects of prevention. However, recent campaigns focused on aversive materials, which goes against studies that report negative effects from these strategies and is associated with the rise of moralist perspectives on prevention.