HIV Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about HIV, including details on human immunodeficiency virus, testing, treatment, prevention, vaccines, aids.

Predictors of condom use and HIV testing among midlife and older women seeking medical services.

Sormanti M, Shibusawa T

Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, USA.

OBJECTIVE: This study examines correlates and predictors of sexual HIV risk reported by a sample of midlife and older women (M age = 56.01 years, SD = 4.34). METHODS: In sum, 1,280 participants were recruited from primary health clinics and a hospital emergency department. RESULTS: Of those women in a heterosexual relationship (n = 623), 73% reported having vaginal sex in the past 6 months. Only 12% of these women reported always using a condom during vaginal sex; 45% reported having been tested for HIV. Logistic regression analyses revealed that condom use is associated with more education, being employed, living with a partner, and being HIV positive. HIV testing is associated with being younger, unemployed, and not living with a partner. DISCUSSION: These results (a) demonstrate that midlife and older women are at risk for HIV/AIDS and (b) contribute to a growing understanding of the risk picture involved with such women.

Published 7 August 2007 in J Aging Health, 19(4): 705-19.
Full-text of this article is available online (may require subscription).

© 2004-2008 HIV Research Today. All Rights Reserved.