Patterns of HIV/AIDS, STI, substance abuse and hepatitis risk among selected samples of Latino and African-American youth in Washington, DC

Abstract

In order to address evolving risk factors among youth in Washington, DC (District of Columbia), with respect to HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), substance abuse, and hepatitis, a targeted, community-needs assessment was conducted through a partnership between the Department of Prevention and Community Health at George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services (GWU SPHHS), and the Latin American Youth Center (LAYC). Multiple methods were used in the assessment, including key informant interviews, the collection of risk factor data through a survey and focus groups, community mapping, and case file review of returning juvenile offenders. Results supported an understanding of multiple risk among these youth that was embedded within a broader social and community context. In addition, the data suggested that some sexual risk behaviour may be an unintended consequence of HIV/AIDS education.

Keywords:

• alcohol
• drugs
• health
• risk
• sexuality

Notes

1. These organizations included Bell Multicultural High School, La Clínica del Pueblo, Latin American Youth Center, Upper Cardozo Clinic, Metro TeenAIDS, Mary's Center for Maternal and Child Health, Inc., and the Children's National Medical Center.

2. Note that the terms ‘clove cigarettes’ and ‘bidis’ were not differentiated in this group.