The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #56201

Matthew Moyer, MPH, Anthony J. Silvestre, PhD, LSW, and John F. Faber, PhD, LSW. Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, 3520 Fifth Avenue, Suite 400, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, 412.624.5508, matt@stophiv.pitt.edu

The Youth Empowerment Project, in Pittsburgh, PA, is a peer-led, community based program that targets at-risk youth, primarily young gay men, bisexuals and African Americans. The program’s major activity includes outreach to young adults in clubs and social groups while encouraging HIV counseling and testing. Locally, HIV testing clinics report increased positive HIV test results among men under the age of 25. Although research indicates HIV increases among youth across the US, and the need to promote prevention and early detection, the staggering fact remains - young adults are not seeking HIV testing further increasing their risk of HIV. This study was designed to examine why at-risk youth are not getting tested for HIV. A four-page, 38 question, anonymous survey was developed to gather data on demographics, where youth get their information, reasons for not seeking testing, and behaviors that place them at risk. Surveys were distributed over a 6-month period at youth clubs and social groups. Results from the more than 300 surveys will be presented. Data will describe respondents’ testing fears, lack of knowing where to go to be tested, worries and perceived risks. Furthermore, data showing the relationship between respondents’ risk behaviors and personal characteristics and their likelihood of being tested for HIV will be presented. This presentation will provide recommendations derived from survey data that will assist providers in developing more effective HIV prevention programs for at-risk youth that apprise them of their risks factors and provide them information on local HIV testing facilities.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify and describe young adult community risks for HIV infection/reinfection and the importance of HIV testing and early detection of infection.
• Describe the conceptual YEP model and programs used to address the diverse needs of youth.
• Results will be examined and address the several issues affecting at-risk youth and concerns for not seeking HIV testing.
• Suggestions for reaching at-risk LGBT youth and how HIV prevention programs can better address their needs.

Keywords: Youth, HIV Interventions

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.