Doubts remain, risks persist: HIV prevention knowledge and HIV testing among drug users in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Subst Use Misuse. 2011;46(4):511-22. doi: 10.3109/10826081003720881. Epub 2010 Apr 14.

Abstract

Brazil has been recognized for being the first developing country to provide universal AIDS treatment. Brazil also implemented a comprehensive prevention initiative. These efforts have been successful, with about half the number of HIV/AIDS cases forecast in 1992 developing by 2000. However, HIV/AIDS continues to spread, including among not-in-treatment drug users. Questions have been raised about gaps in existing prevention efforts. Based on qualitative research in 2006-2008 with street drug users in Rio de Janeiro (focus groups, N=24; a pile sort, N=108; open-ended interviews, N=34), this paper examines enduring gaps in HIV knowledge and prevailing risk patterns and proposes strategies for strengthening prevention.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / prevention & control*
  • Brazil
  • Drug Users*
  • HIV Infections / diagnosis
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control*
  • HIV Seropositivity
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Male
  • Substance Abuse, Intravenous / prevention & control*