Background: This paper explores drug-using women’s sexual risk behavior within their primary relationships, a major source of HIV infection in this population. Methods: Data from 372 mostly minority women were obtained in structured interviews as part of a retrospective HIV research project. All were offered HIV testing and counseling. Logistic regression identified significant predictors of unprotected vaginal or anal sex in the last 30 days. Predictors examined were: demographics of both partners, and relationship factors, such as living arrangements, duration, closeness, economics, violence, communication, drug use, and HIV serostatus. Results: 68% of women reported unprotected sex with their main partner in prior 30 days; 9% believed partner to be HIV+; 25% of women tested HIV+; HIV serodiscordance predicted consistent condom use (OR=4.4; CI=2.4, 7.9). Controlling for HIV serostatus, four variables significantly predicted unprotected sex with main partners: (1) received monetary support from main partner (OR=1.6, CI=0.9, 2.7; p=.08); (2) main partner ever committed physical violence against respondent (OR=2.2, CI=0.1.1, 4.6); (3) main partner under 40 yrs. old (OR=1.8; CI=1.1, 3.0); (4) no communication about protective sex in prior 6 months (OR=3.3; CI=1.9, 5.6). Conclusions: While previous research has identified differences in HIV risk behaviors between casual and main partners, this study examines distinctions among main partner relationships. Our results suggest that HIV prevention programs should address relationship-specific issues, such as economics, violence, and communication. Further research is needed to examine how relationship dynamics affect HIV risk behavior among drug-using couples.
Learning Objectives: After reviewing the presentation the learner will be able to: 1) recognize the HIV risk related behavioral differences that exist between main partner and casual partner relationships 2) describe the demographic structure and HIV prevalence of women drug users from East Harlem, NY 3) identify the major determinants of HIV sexual risk behavior within main partner relationships 4) assess the importance of understanding relationship-specific factors for HIV prevention programs
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Sexual Risk Behavior
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.