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

Abstract #69608

Don Operario, PhD¹, Tooru Nemoto, PhD², JoAnne Keatley, MSW³, and Lei Han, PhD¹. (1) Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California San Francisco, 74 New Montgomery Street, Suite 250, San Francisco, CA 94105, (415) 597-9257, doperario@psg.ucsf.edu, (2) Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of Califonia, San Francisco, 74 New Montgomery St. Suite #200, San Francisco, CA 94105, (3) Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, 1145 Bush Street, Second Floor, San Francisco, CA 94109

Objective: This study examined health issues and HIV risk behaviors among male-to-female (MTF) transgender women of color. Methods: Identified through street outreach and community network referrals, 332 MTF transgender women participants [112 African Americans, 110 Latinas, and 110 Asian/Pacific Islanders (APIs)] completed individual interviews. Results: High rates of HIV, Hepatitis C, and STD infection were reported. Findings revealed heightened levels of depression throughout the sample, highest among Latinas, and alarming rates of suicidal ideation and suicide attempts throughout the sample, highest among African Americans. Findings also showed that experiences of transphobia and depression mediated the association between ethnicity and HIV risk behaviors. Conclusions: HIV risk among transgenders is associated with experiences of social stigma throughout their lives. HIV interventions targeting the the MTF transgender community must address the psychosocial context of their risk behaviors.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to:
• Identify the prevalent HIV risk behaviors among male-to-female transgenders,
• become aware of the association between social stigma, transphobia, and HIV risk,
• Prioritize male-to-female transgenders for increased HIV prevention services.

Keywords: Underserved Populations, Sexual Risk Behavior

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.