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Abstract #149311

Ann P. Zukoski, DrPH, MPH, S. Marie Harvey, MPH, DrPH, Meredith R. Branch, MPH, and Donna Champeau, PhD. Department of Public Health, Oregon State University, 256 Waldo Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331-6406, (541) 737-5313, ann.zukoski@oregonstate.edu

Little research has focused on Latino heterosexual males perspectives on the prevention of STIs and HIV/AIDS; even less research has focused on a growing demographic –Latinos living in rural areas. Latinos are disproportionately being affected by STIs and HIV/AIDS. In 2004, Latinos accounted for 20% of all new AIDS cases but made up only 14% of the US population. Latina women are especially at risk. In 2004, heterosexual transmission accounted for 49% of Latina AIDS cases, an increase of 17% from 2002. In order for prevention efforts to be successful, it is imperative that we better understand Latino male and female perspectives on preventing STIs and HIV/AIDS and the dynamics surrounding condom use. As part of a CDC funded study, this paper will report findings from 58 in-depth qualitative interviews (average of 60 minutes) with young at-risk Latino males and females (ages 18-25) who reside in rural areas of the northwest. Recruitment and interviews were conducted by bilingual/bicultural interviewers at peoples' homes, workplaces such as agricultural farms, and public places such as soccer fields and parks. Based on the results of content analyses, we will explore what Latino male and females do to prevent STIs and HIV/AIDS, barriers and facilitators to protecting themselves, and how decisions are made to use condoms. Preliminary findings indicate that socio-cultural norms play a role but relationship factors especially influence protective behaviors and condom use actions. Implications for policies and interventions will be discussed.

Learning Objectives:

• 1. Understand the significance of studying male as well as female attitudes and behaviors related to STI and HIV/AIDS prevention.
• 2. Describe factors that influence rural Latino male and female STI, HIV and AIDS preventive behavior and use of condoms.
• 3. Discuss the implications of study findings for future interventions and research on Latino STI, HIV/AIDS prevention efforts.

Keywords: Sexual Risk Behavior, Latinos

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No
Any institutionally-contracted trials related to this submission?

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.