This study examines rates and predictors of HIV testing among three risk populations: heterosexuals with suspected STDs; IDUs; and MSMs. Subjects from across one medium-incidence midwestern state were conveniently sampled during the summer and fall of 1998 from STD clinics (heterosexuals), street settings, shelters, and drug treatment centers (IDUs), and bars (MSMs). Women and minorities were oversampled to ensure adequate representation. Both metropolitan and rural areas were included in the study. Anonymous interviews of 25-35 minutes were completed for 321 individuals. Survey data included demographics, reported HIV testing history, reported sexual behavior, and reported drug use behavior during the past 12 months. Frequencies and descriptive statistics are used to describe testing patterns. A higher percentage of IDUs reported ever being tested for HIV (87%) while a higher percentage of MSMs reported being tested for HIV on a regular basis (60%). Using concepts from the behavioral model of health services utilization, logistic and ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analyses were used to model the importance of predisposing characteristics (sex, age, race, education), enabling resources (income, insurance, regular source of care), and need (risk) on both "ever tested for HIV" and "tested regularly for HIV." Need was operationlized both subjectively (reported perception of risk for HIV infection) and ojectively (reported frequency of risky sex and drug use behaviors). Results of these analyses have important implications for HIV testing policies and outreach/intervention strategies to bring high risk individuals from these communities to HIV testing in greater numbers.
Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to identify the risk populations for HIV/AIDS; be familiar with HIV testing rates among disproportionately affected communities; identify factors that facilitate or inhibit testing for HIV; and formulate strategies for increasing testing rates among high risk populations
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Underserved Populations
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.