Since 1987, cross-sectional sex surveys in random samples of Norwegians have been carried out every 5 years. In 1987 and 1992, the sample size was 10.000 persons aged 18-59 years. In 1997 and 2002, the age range of participants was 18-49 years. In 1997, a study with questions overlapping the Swedish sex survey 1996 among a random sample of 5.000 in Oslo aged 18-49 years was carried out. In 2008, the sample comprised 12.000 persons in between 18 and 59 years.
All data collections were carried out by means of anonymous, mailed, self-administered questionnaires, sent via regular mail. In 2008, the participants could also respond via a web-site. One reminder was sent to all individuals. The response rate was 63% in 1987, 48% in 1992, 38% in 1997 (48% in Oslo), 34% in 2002, and 18% in 2008. A drop in response rate seems to be a trend in all questionnaire surveys.
Despite this, studies indicate that non-response is most likely fairly random with respect to sexual behaviour. It is likely that the surveys up to 2002 are not severely biased, but the 2008 survey is most likely biased. In 1987, 1992, 1997 and 2002, 17%, 21%, 17% and 19% reported using condom during the most recent intercourse with a non-cohabiting partner. The percent with homosexual experience increased over the 15 years period from 4% to 11% in men, and from 3% to 12% in women. Another trend was a drop in the coital debut age.
Conflict of Interest: None disclosed
Financial Support/Funding: None disclosed
The 19th WAS World Congress for Sexual Health - Sexual Health & Rights: A Global Challenge Göteborg (Sweden) - June 21 – 25, 2009
more about this speaker
