HIV and American Indians: Predictors of unsafe sexual practices and non-HIV testing tendencies

HIV/AIDS is a growing problem among American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs). This presentation reports on HIV screening and health-related behaviors among American Indians residing in rural regions of California. Thirteen Indian health clinic registries formed the random household survey sampling frame (N=457). Measures included socio-demographics, safer sexual practices, HIV testing, high-risk behaviors, perception of wellness, general health status, neglect, and physical/sexual abuse history. Analysis included chi-square and Fisher's exact tests, as well as multiple logistic regression analysis. Respondents who practiced safer sex were younger, unmarried, not in a monogamous relationship, had changed sexual behavior in the last 12 months, and had a higher perception of wellness. Those who had received HIV testing were younger, had at least a high school education, consumed alcohol, had significantly higher suicide ideation and attempts, changed their sexual behavior in the last 12 months, and reported a history of sexual abuse. More research is needed to improve HIV prevention in this population. It is important to identify predictors of unsafe sexual practices and non-HIV testing tendencies to help to plan interventions to protect the population from this devastating disease. Recommendations for implementing HIV education and screenings at American Indian clinics are discussed.