The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #65183

Michael Evans, Department of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, St. George's University School of Medicine, P.O. Box 7, University Centre, St. George's, Grenada, 484 951-6238, evansmikew@hotmail.com and Theresa J. McCann, MPH, PhD, Windward Islands Research & Education Foundation, School of Medicine, Department of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, St. George's University, P.O. Box 7, University Centre, St. George's, Grenada.

Objectives: To examine the differences in HIV prevalence and transmission rates that exist between racial and ethnic groups in the United States and to determine which groups would benefit most from public health interventions. Methods: The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System is a population based random survey carried out in the United States and Puerto Rico. Annual prevalence estimates were calculated for self rated HIV risk and condom recommendation to a sexually active teenager among racial/ethnic groups in the United States and Puerto Rico. This data was examined by sociodemographic characteristics. Results: Puerto Ricans are more likely to perceive their HIV risk as low and less likely to recommend condom use to a sexually active teenager than Hispanic, Black, or non-minority Americans. Trends exist regarding HIV-related risk behavior and education and income levels. Americans have engaged in sexual intercourse with a greater number of individuals than they did three years ago. Only Black Americans show an increase in condom use, but also show the greatest increase in number of sexual partners. Conclusion: HIV-related risk behavior differs by race/ethnicity and sociodemographics in the US and Puerto Rico. Knowledge regarding HIV risk and safe sex is limited in Puerto Rico in comparison to all groups in the United States.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize the changes in beliefs regarding HIV transmission that have occured in the United States between 1997 and 2000.
• Identify differences that exist between groups in the United States compared to Puerto Rico relating to HIV risk assessment and condom use.
• Discuss areas of potential intervention targeting a reduction in HIV transmission risk.

Keywords: HIV Risk Behavior, Condom Use

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.