Few studies have compared HIV-related knowledge, behaviors and needs of rural, young, and female injection drug users (IDUs). However, knowledge of these differences is a prerequisite to developing targeted and effective HIV prevention interventions.
A needs assessment of rural, youth, and female IDUs was conducted across Pennsylvania in 2000. Also, limited data collection occurred among urban, male IDUs, about whom more had been previously known, to provide updated information from past needs assessments. Eight focus groups and 55 individual interviews were carried out in six representative locations across the state. Participants were asked about their general knowledge of HIV and risk behaviors, sexual-related risks, experience with prevention interventions, patterns of drug use, and, the HIV prevention interventions they perceived as most effective related to their peer group. Unique findings per subgroup were identified. For example, issues of power differences between female and male IDUs place women at greater risk for infection and call for prevention interventions tailored to their unique needs. Also, more discrepancies emerged in knowledge about HIV/AIDS than had been expected prior to data collection.
The methodology used to assess these hard-to-reach populations will be presented. In addition, findings will be summarized. Finally, a process of utilizing these findings by the Pennsylvania HIV Prevention Community Planning Committee will be summarized.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to: 1)describe specific strategies to assess the needs of hard-to-reach subgroups of injection drugs users, 2) understand the advantages of qualitative research strategies with regard to needs assessment, 3) understand the unique HIV prevention needs of rural, female, and young injection drug users, and, 3) articulate ways of integrating findings from such needs assessments into the planning processes of HIV prevention community planning groups.
Keywords: HIV Risk Behavior, Needs Assessment
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.