The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #47347

Duerward Beale, Kenneth Cruz, and Linda Burnette. Youth Outreach Adolescent Community Awareness Program (YO ACAP), 1207 Chestnut Street, 3rd floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107-4102, 215-851-1832, woody@yoacap.org

Effective HIV prevention efforts must be guided by data on factors associated with risk of viral exposure. Historically, prevention interventions have targeted individuals (or communities) belonging to broadly defined risk groups. However, many individuals from these risk populations have reduced their risk of exposure, requiring new strategies to reach those at highest risk. This presentation will describe the findings of a CDC funded project that examined the potential of targeting interventions at "risk pockets"--small geographic areas with high concentrations of multiple risk behaviors, identified using data from a prior rapid assessment effort (RARE). In Philadelphia, African American heterosexuals were identified in three risk pocket areas. A non-probability sample of 508 subjects completed knowledge, attitude, beliefs (KAB) and behavioral (RAB) surveys. We examined differences in these core components of HIV prevention interventions. Although respondents all met the same risk group criteria, significant differences were found in risk behaviors, attitudes, knowledge, and beliefs when KAB and RAB responses were compared across risk pockets. These differences included perceived risk of HIV exposure (p<.05), beliefs about peer group behaviors (p<.01), knowledge of local HIV testing services (p<.01), experience with HIV testing (<.01), perceived efficacy of condom use (<.05), and exchange of drugs and money for sex (p<.01). The findings emphasize the importance of geographical differences in understanding the HIV exposure risk within the City. This presentation will suggest that targeting small geographic areas may improve the effectiveness of local HIV prevention interventions.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, attendees will be able to

• Describe the meaning of the term "risk pocket".
• Explain how use of the risk pocket concept can produce HIV prevention interventions that target those at highest risk of viral exposure.
• Identify differences across risk pockets that have implications for the design of HIV prevention interventions.

Keywords: HIV/AIDS, HIV Interventions

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.