Sexually transmitted diseases in college men: a preliminary clinical investigation.

Continuing efforts to educate college students about the dangers of unprotected sexual intercourse have resulted in little evidence of positive change in sexual behavior. This clinical study examined the sexual behavior, perceived risk of human immunodeficiency virus, and pathology of 66 university men attending a health center's men's clinic for treatment of sexually transmitted disease (STD). The study demonstrated the existence of a high-risk group of men who, despite sexually transmitted disease pathology, high numbers of sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, and delays in seeking treatment, perceive their risk of contracting HIV/AIDS as being extremely low. This preliminary investigation suggests the need for specific education interventions and future in-depth studies of this population.