Abstract
Misconceptions about HIV transmission and prevention may inhibit individuals' accurate assessment of their level of risk. We used venue-based sampling to conduct a cross-sectional study of heterosexually active adults (N = 1, 221) within areas exhibiting high poverty and HIV/ AIDS rates in Miami-Dade and Broward counties in 2007. Two logistic regression analyses identified correlates of holding inaccurate beliefs about HIV transmission and prevention. Belief in incorrect HIVprevention methods (27.2%) and modes of transmission (38.5%) was common. Having at least one incorrect prevention belief was associated with being Hispanic compared to white (non-Hispanic), being depressed, and not knowing one's HIV status. Having at least one incorrect transmission belief was associated with being younger, heavy alcohol use, being depressed, not having seen a physician in the past 12 months, and not knowing one's HIV status. Among low-income heterosexuals, HIV prevention and transmission myths are widespread. Debunking them could have HIV prevention value.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 751-760 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | AIDS and Behavior |
Volume | 16 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Apr 1 2012 |
Keywords
- Beliefs
- HIV
- HIV status
- Misconceptions
- Myths
- Prevention
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Social Psychology
- Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
- Infectious Diseases