What role do IDU social networks play in the diffusion of preventive and risky HIV behavior? Are social networks able to diffuse HIV prevention materials from the local SEP to a larger audience? The Diffusion of Benefits (DOB) Project among its other objectives attempts to answer these two related questions in order to better understand HIV risk for the participants in a 3-city study (Chicago, Il; Hartford, CT & Oakland, CA). Specifically, DOB examines these participants and their social networks across three different time points each separated by approximately 12 months. To help answer the two primary questions above the current study will examine: 1) To whom are SEP users most likely to diffuse HIV prevention materials? 2) What types of things are more likely to be diffused (for example knowledge about hepatitis as compared to a sterile syringe)? 3)Do risk and preventive behaviors get diffused in the same networks and thru the same routes? 4)How do these issues differ across three cities?
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Injection Drug Users, HIV/AIDS
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.