Towards the elimination of this global epidemic, understanding the high-risk behaviors of people newly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS (PNDWH) is essential. This study aimed to describe the general characteristics and high-risk behaviors of PNDWH and identify associated factors for adopting high-risk behaviors. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Vietnam to explore the high-risk behaviors of 506 PNDWH. Associated factors were identified using multivariable logistic regressions. 83.2% of participants had sex without using a condom, and 27.9% had more than two sex partners. Among injected drug users, 44% had shared needles with an average number of 2.1 shared partners. Male, Kinh ethnicity (Vietnamese), high income, and high educational level were risk factors for high-risk behaviors. Our findings revealed the first time a comprehensive picture of PNDWH and emphasized the high prevalence of STIs, including untreated STIs and the long delay since the early HIV diagnosis. Also, our model found much higher risk behaviors among participants who were non-adherent to ART and those currently enrolled in ART. By better managing newly-diagnosed cases, better integrating STI management services and prevention consultants, as well as improving ART adherence programs, Vietnam can make better progress towards the complete control of HIV for its most vulnerable populations.
Keywords: Associated factors; HIV/AIDS; Vietnam; high-risk behaviors; newly diagnosed.