Abstract Introduction: HIV/AIDS prevention research has shown the efficacy of interventions that focus on the reduction of risk behaviors associated with HIV/AIDS. However, most studies have focused on younger samples, with middle-aged and older individuals generally under-represented. An analysis was undertaken to determine the association between age and engaging in five risk behaviors. Methods: The sample consisted of 3,238 individuals, 32% of whom were above 44 years of age; approximately 62% were men, 38% women. More than 99% of the sample consisted of injecting drug users. Results: Odds-ratios (OR) were computed between age and each of the risk factors for the entire sample, men, and women, respectively. (1) Not using condoms: OR=0.73 (95% CI .61-.88); OR=0.51 (95% CI .40-.64); OR=1.80 (95% CI 1.26-2.57). (2) Having sex with someone who has other sex partners: OR=0.58 (95% CI .47-.70); OR=0.36 (95% CI .27-.48); OR=1.27 (95% CI .90-1.80). (3) Having sex with someone who injects drugs: OR=0.55 (95% CI .45-.68); OR=0.49 (95% CI .38-.63); OR=0.96 (95% CI .64-1.43). (4) Sharing needles without bleaching: OR=0.97 (95% CI .72-1.32); OR=0.88 (95% CI .61-1.27); OR=1.35 (95% CI .77-2.36). (5) Sharing cookers, cotton, and/or water for injecting: OR=0.88 (95% CI .63-1.21); OR=0.92 (95% CI .62-1.35); OR=0.84 (95% CI .46-1.54). Conclusion: As age increases, women are more likely to engage in risk behaviors than men, especially in not using condoms.
Learning Objectives: By the end of this presentation, the participant should be able to: 1. identify the risk factors for HIV/AIDS transmission among older individuals, and 2. determine which of these risk factors differs between men and women.
Keywords: Sexual Risk Behavior, Injection Drug Users
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.