AIDS Epidemic Among Latino Intravenous Drug Users (From Drugs in Hispanic Communities, 1990, P 45-54, Ronald Glick, Joan Moore, eds. -- See NCJ-133768)

• NCJ Number: 133770
• Author(s): S R Friedman; M Sufian; D C Des Jarlais
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 10 pages
• Sale Source: Rutgers University Press
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Following a review of the epidemiology of AIDS in the United States, attention turns to data on drug users' knowledge bout AIDS and risk behaviors by racial ethnic group and the need for intervention programs aimed at reducing the risk of HIV transmission among Latino intravenous drug users and their sexual partners.

Abstract

Data available from New York City on knowledge, risk, and risk reduction suggest that Latino intravenous drug users in New York City are at the highest risk for HIV infection, but have less knowledge about transmission and engage in lower levels of deliberate risk reduction than whites or blacks. Cultural differences may need to be considered as possible causes of the higher vulnerability to AIDS among Latinos. Differences that may affect vulnerability include health-related beliefs; gender roles; and attitudes about childbearing and contraception, standards of modesty, and drug use. The experience gained in New York, San Francisco, and Chicago programs suggests that Latino intravenous drug users are open to AIDS education about ways to protect themselves and others. 4 tables