Alcohol and AIDS-related sexual behavior among Hispanics: acculturation and gender differences
Hines, A.M.; Caetano, R.
Aids Education and Prevention Official Publication of the International Society for Aids Education 10(6): 533-547
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0899-9546 PMID: 9883288 Document Number: 486622
Most at risk for heterosexually transmitted HIV infection are those engaged in multiple sexual partners and those not using condoms. This follow up survey examined the relationship of acculturation to alcohol use and risky sexual behavior among Hispanic men (269) and women (294). Data was collected from a 1991-92 general population survey on alcohol that included questions on sexual behavior. Examination of the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics, perception of AIDS-related risk, drinking and AIDS-related sexual behavior focused on gender and acculturation differences. Results indicated that less acculturated Hispanic men drank more heavily and were more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior than those who were more acculturated. Although acculturated Hispanic women drank more than those who were less acculturated, less acculturated Hispanic women engaged in more risky sexual behavior. This study suggests a need for culturally sensitive AIDS-prevention programs that are linked with alcohol treatment services for men and that are targeted to different acculturation levels for men and women.