Published in:
01-12-2009 | Original Paper
Psychosocial Characteristics and Sexual Behaviors of People in Care for HIV Infection: An Examination of Men Who Have Sex with Men, Heterosexual Men and Women
Authors:
Carol Golin, Gary Marks, Julie Wright, Mary Gerkovich, Hsiao-Chuan Tien, Shilpa N. Patel, Lytt Gardner, Christine O’Daniels, Tracey E. Wilson, Mark Thrun, Melanie Thompson, Stephen Raffanti, E. Byrd Quinlivan
Published in:
AIDS and Behavior
|
Issue 6/2009
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Abstract
Few studies have examined the psychosocial factors associated with sexual transmission behaviors among HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM), heterosexual men (MSW) and women. We enrolled 1,050 sexually active HIV-positive patients at seven HIV clinics in six US cities as part of a clinic-based behavioral intervention. We describe the sexual transmission behaviors and examine demographic, clinical, psychosocial, and clinic prevention variables associated with unprotected anal or vaginal intercourse (UAVI). Twenty-three percent of MSM, 12.3% of MSW and 27.8% of women engaged in UAVI with partners perceived to be HIV-negative or of unknown serostatus. Among MSM and MSW, having multiple partners and lower self-efficacy were associated with increased odds of UAVI. Self-rating one’s health status as excellent/very good was a risk factor for UAVI among MSM. Among women, binge drinking and stressful life events were associated with UAVI. These findings identify variables that warrant attention in targeted interventions.