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Carl G. Leukefeld, DSW, J. Matthew Webster, PhD, and Carrie B. Oser, PhD. Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, 643 Maxwelton Court, Lexington, KY 40506-0350, 859-323-3792, cboser0@uky.edu
Background and Significance: Limited information is available about individuals who use illegal drugs in rural areas, particularly those involved in high-risk HIV behaviors such as injecting drugs. Understanding the characteristics that distinguish injectors from non-injectors may suggest ways to more effectively reach high-risk populations, communicate HIV risk reduction messages, and ultimately reduce the transmission of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Methods: Participants included 500 felony probationers from a larger NIDA-funded HIV risk-reduction study. Two groups were examined: injectors (N=105) and non-injectors (N=395). These groups were examined on their demographics, drug use, criminal history, treatment history, STI status, and other high-risk HIV behaviors. T-tests and Chi-Squares were used to determine statistical differences between the groups. Results: Participants were an average of 34 years old, 67% male, 92% white, and had 10.25 years of education. The following significant differences were found: injection drug users were more likely to be gay/lesbian/bisexual, use more drugs, received drug and alcohol treatment, arrested before age 18, served time in jail jail, have had partners who were also injection drug users, have had one or more STI, and have had sex for drugs or money. However, there were no significant differences between the groups for age, gender, race/ethnicity, or education. Discussion: Results suggest that these rural participants who use injection drugs engage in more risky behaviors, possibly to support their drug involvement. Significant early criminal involvement suggests that juvenile offenders may be an important group for HIV risk reduction education. Implications for the development of HIV risk reduction messages in rural areas will be discussed.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: HIV Risk Behavior, Rural Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: National Institute on Drug Abuse funded project
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.