HIV prevalence and related risk behaviors reported by male Mixtec migrant laborers in San Diego County

Background: Mixtecs are among the largest groups of Mexican indigenous migrant laborers in California. Anecdotal information and epidemiological data from Mexico indicate potential for HIV acquisition by male farm workers outside their community of origin. This study begins to estimate the prevalence of HIV and related behavioral risks, and the social determinants for risk practices of Mixtec migrant farm workers in northern San Diego County. Methods: Study protocols were developed with Mixtec community members. Interviews queried behavior in their community of origin and in California. Ten interviewers recruited and interviewed 266 Mixtec male participants from 18 sites; 263 of the 266 (98.9%) agreed to an Orasure HIV antibody test. Results: One-third reported vaginal, anal or oral sex since last U.S. entry. Of those, 21% reported having sex in exchange for money, food or drugs. 50% of sexually active participants reported sex with sex workers. The mean number of female sex partners since their last entry into the U.S. was 4.48. Of the nearly 25% who reported having anal sex with females, three out of 4 reported not using condoms. Of the 263 participants tested for HIV antibodies, one (previously diagnosed) positive test resulted. 52.3% reported being single; results will also compare reported risk behaviors of those with regular sex partners with those without regular partners. Conclusions: Results indicate low HIV prevalence in the context of common HIV-related risk behaviors. Study results on risk determinants and identification of potential protective factors can contribute to the control of HIV/AIDS among Mixtec migrants.