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Spread of HIV could slow if repeat testing is supported

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26.10.2004

Findings of a recent study published in Public Health Nursing suggest that if the main barriers preventing high-risk populations from having routine testing for HIV are addressed, the spread of AIDS could be slowed in the US.

The study, conducted at an urgent care center in Atlanta, GA, interviewed 143 high-risk patients to identify behavioral and psychosocial barriers associated with having repeat and routine aids testing. Women, who had been tested for HIV previously, were asked their likelihood of being tested again. Of the women who had a low likelihood of being tested, 25% said it was because they are not worried about becoming infected with HIV and 40% don’t believe testing is an important part of their healthcare. These two main barriers support the need for more education and social programs to help women see the benefits of HIV testing.

The third correlate found that 37% of the women interviewed are concerned about having blood drawn, proving that the practice of offering women an alternative, such as oral tests, could further encourage testing.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that approximately one third of US residents currently infected by HIV are unaware they are infected. By identifying these prevalent behavioral and psychosocial correlates, steps can be taken to increase the number of people who are aware they are infected, "thereby creating an opportunity for their adoption of behaviors limiting the probability of HIV transmission to others."

About the Author

Richard A. Crosby, PhD is DDI Endowed Associate Professor of Health Behavior at the Kentucky School of Public Health at the University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY. Dr. Crosby has authored over 30 papers on the topics of sexually transmitted diseases and has been a member of The Association for Teachers for Preventative Medicine. Dr. Crosby is available for interviews and can be reached by phone at 859-257-5678 Ext. 82039.

About Public Health Nursing

In its 21st year of publication, Public Health Nursing publishes thought-provoking theoretical discussions, timely reviews, dynamic clinical reports, and commentary by the nation’s health care leaders. Edited by Sarah E. Abrams and Judith C. Hays, the journal focuses on the rapidly changing issues which concern public health professionals as they manage today’s system and invent the next decade’s. The Journal’s highly respected contributors provide a vehicle for remaining on the cutting edge of current thinking and research in the field.

About Blackwell Publishing

Blackwell Publishing is the world’s leading society publisher. The company remains independent with over 900 staff members in offices in the US, UK, Australia, China, Denmark, Germany, and Japan. Blackwell publishes over 700 journals in partnership with more than 550 academic and professional societies.

Sharon Agsalda | Source: EurekAlert!
Further information: www.blackwellpublishing.net.

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