New HIV/AIDS study findings have been reported by D. Djokic and colleagues

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March 9th, 2009

   2009 MAR 9 -- "High HIV infection rates in the United States are increasingly due to heterosexual risk behaviors, with increased rates in blacks and women. A survey of HIV knowledge and attitudes about HIV testing was conducted in an inner-city public housing population that included a convenience sample of residents of South Side Chicago Housing Authority facilities," researchers in the United States report.

   "The questionnaire addressed knowledge about HIV transmission and disease, health care options, condom use, prior HIV testing, and preferred places for HIV testing and education. Five hundred residents, ages 13-50 years completed the survey, during the period from November 2002 until April 2003. Eighty-three percent of the respondents were female and 50% of those surveyed were from 18-30 years of age. Race/ethnicity was not questioned in order to improve response rate. A comparable sample conducted earlier showed that population was 99% black race. Most respondents were knowledgeable about HIV transmission risk factors, although misinformation about transmission, treatment and prevention existed. Knowledge that HIV therapy is available was high (71%), while 25% thought an HIV vaccine was available and 13% thought there was a cure for HIV. Two thirds of sexually active respondents reported condom use in the past year. Three quarters reported previous testing for HIV and 90% of those tested returned for results. Most respondents wanted to learn more about HIV risk factors, testing and treatment but preferred primary care clinics to specialized places for HIV testing," wrote D. Djokic and colleagues.

   The researchers concluded: "Targeted HIV education interventions in the public housing facilities or primary care clinics are warranted."

   Djokic and colleagues published their study in AIDS Patient Care and Stds (HIV Knowledge and Attitudes toward HIV Testing of South Side Chicago Housing Authority Residents. AIDS Patient Care and Stds, 2009;23(1):23-28).

   For additional information, contact D. Djokic, University Chicago, Division Pediatrics Infectious Disease, Dept. of Pediatrics, 5841 S Maryland Avenue, MC 6054, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.

   Publisher contact information for the journal AIDS Patient Care and Stds is: Mary Ann Liebert Inc., 140 Huguenot Street, 3RD FL, New Rochelle, NY 10801, USA.

   Keywords: United States, Chicago, HIV/AIDS, AIDS, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Behavior, HIV, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Virology.

   This article was prepared by AIDS Vaccine Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2009, AIDS Vaccine Week via NewsRx.com.

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