High-risk behaviours in men from Bogotá, Colombia and the spread of HIV

Int J STD AIDS. 2001 Nov;12(11):739-43. doi: 10.1258/0956462011924245.

Abstract

Our objective was to identify sexual behaviours related to risk of HIV infection. A cluster survey of sexually experienced men from diverse sociodemographic settings in Bogotá, Colombia was carried out using a standardized self-administered questionnaire. A high response rate (96%) resulted in the enrollment of 553 men. Most participants 129/442 reported having intercourse with women and 51/111 reported having sex with other men. Most respondents (90%) engaged in high-risk sexual practices; only 2% knew their HIV-1 serostatus. Consistent condom use was reported by 20% of those who practised anal sex, and was even lower (5%) among men who had sex with women during menses. Heterosexuals exhibited a higher degree of risky sexual patterns than homosexual/bisexuals (P=0.01). In conclusion, high-risk sexual practices are prevalent among men in Bogotá, particularly heterosexuals, attesting to the urgent need for effective and specific interventions to prevent HIV transmission.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Colombia / epidemiology
  • Condoms
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / epidemiology
  • HIV Infections / transmission*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Risk-Taking*
  • Sexual Behavior*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires