Prevalence and Profile of HIV Antibody Testing among High Risk Adults

Background: The present study examined the prevalence and profile of a group of adults who had HIV antibody testing status as well as its relationship to sexual risk behaviors. Methods: The data were collected locally from thirteen sites from September 2002 to September 2006; collection was funded by the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA). All participants were asked to complete a baseline questionnaire including a series of substance use and HIV risk behavior variables (N=1,877). The analysis (1) examined the difference of the HIV testing and each demographics (gender, age, race, and education), and (2) obtained adjusted odds ratios of HIV risk behaviors in relation to HIV testing controlling for significant demographic variables (age, race, and education). Results: Results indicated approximately 80% of the adults reported having HIV testing. Those who had been tested were more likely to be African-Americans and/or have better education than those who had not been tested (p<.05). Bisexuals were more likely to have HIV testing than heterosexual and gay/lesbians. Those who reported having unprotected vaginal sex, oral sex, and anal sex were more likely to report HIV testing (p<.05). Those who had unprotected sex for money/drugs were more likely to report HIV testing. Those who had unprotected sex with partner who had HIV and those who had sex under the influence of drugs were highly likely to have HIV testing. Conclusions: Findings indicate the importance of investigating HIV risk behaviors in relation to HIV testing.