Document 2086
 DOCN  M94A2086
 TI    Sexual behavior and behavior change among men who have sex with men in
       Brazil, 1989-1993.
 DT    9412
 AU    Parker R; Lorenco L; Mota M; Valle A; ABIA, Grupo Pela VIDDA-RJ,
       IMS/UERJ, Brazil.
 SO    Int Conf AIDS. 1994 Aug 7-12;10(1):384 (abstract no. PD0145). Unique
       Identifier : AIDSLINE ICA10/94370489
 AB    OBJECTIVE: To assess levels of risk behavior and behavioral change in
       response to HIV/AIDS between 1989 and 1993 among men who have sex with
       men in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. METHODS: In an initial cross-sectional
       study carried out in 1989, 503 structured interviews were conducted with
       subjects recruited through friendship networks and targeted outreach
       activities. In 1993, drawing on the same sample design and recruitment
       strategies, a second cross-sectional study was carried out, and 300
       structured interviews were conducted using a comparable question
       schedule. Between 1989 and 1993, an additional 150 semi-structured
       interviews were conducted and ethnographic observation was carried out
       throughout the study. RESULTS: High levels of knowledge and information,
       as well as an accurate perception of HIV risk, were found throughout the
       period of study. In 1989, however, although 40% of the sample reported
       having made significant behavioral changes, high risk behavior continued
       to be widespread, and 54% reported unprotected anal intercourse. By
       1993, however, 62% of the sample reported having made significant
       behavioral changes, and unprotected anal intercourse had dropped to 20%.
       DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Over the course of a four year period,
       important behavioral changes have been documented, suggesting that even
       in the context of developing countries adequate support for HIV/AIDS
       prevention programs can result in a significant reduction of behavioral
       risk. Findings suggest that risk reduction is closely linked to the
       development of social support structures and a growing sense of gay
       community. Social isolation, discrimination, and the experience of
       violence continue to inhibit behavioral change.
 DE    Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/*PREVENTION & CONTROL/
       PSYCHOLOGY/TRANSMISSION  Brazil  Condoms  Cross-Sectional Studies
       *Developing Countries  Homosexuality/*PSYCHOLOGY  Human  HIV
       Infections/*PREVENTION & CONTROL/PSYCHOLOGY/TRANSMISSION  *Knowledge,
       Attitudes, Practice  Male  Personality Assessment  Risk Factors  *Sex
       Behavior  MEETING ABSTRACT

       SOURCE: National Library of Medicine.  NOTICE: This material may be
       protected by Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.Code).