Continued high risk behaviors in HIV infected drug abusers

J Addict Dis. 2002;21(4):67-80. doi: 10.1300/J069v21n04_07.

Abstract

To characterize current risk behaviors of HIV drug abusers in the highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) era, socio-demographic, medical and behavioral information were obtained and immune measurements determined. High-risk sexual practices were prevalent. Participants diagnosed before 1995 were 6 times more likely to have unprotected sex with HIV+ partners (p = 0.05) and 11 times more likely to use contaminated needles (p = 0.05) than participants with later diagnosis. Consistent condom use was reported by only 7% of the cohort. Many (43%) of the participants reported multiple HIV+ and HIV- concurrent partners. Most (65%), particularly women (OR = 3, p = 0.02), did so for drugs or money. Despite detectable viral loads, 36% reported unprotected anal sex. Antiretroviral-treated men, compared to non-treated, tended to have unprotected anal sex (OR = 2, p = 0.07). The continued high-risk behaviors of HIV drug users, particularly those diagnosed before 1995 and/or on antiretroviral therapy, indicates an urgent need for new public health strategies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Florida / epidemiology
  • HIV Infections / complications*
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy
  • HIV Long-Term Survivors / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Recurrence
  • Risk-Taking
  • Sexual Behavior / psychology*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / complications*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / epidemiology
  • Time Factors