HEALTH-CARE PROVIDER AND SELF-ASSESSMENT OF HEALTH-STATUS AND SEXUAL-BEHAVIOR IN HIV-SEROPOSITIVE YOUNG MEN WITH HEMOPHILIA

We hypothesized that persons with HIV who perceive themselves as havin g waning health status may participate in fewer sexual behaviours than HIV-infected persons without HIV-related health problems. The objecti ves of this study were to compare health care provider responses with participant responses for health status and for sexual activity and to examine the relationship of HIV-related health status to the sexual b ehaviour of HIV-seropositive adolescents and young men with haemophili a. A detailed questionnaire designed by researchers from 11 participat ing US haemophilia treatment sites and CDC personnel was administered to 306 HIV-seropositive young men with haemophilia aged 12-25 years. A health care provider from the haemophilia treatment centre also compl eted a questionnaire on each respondent. Self-assessment of HIV-relate d health status was similar to provider assessment of health status. P roviders accurately assessed participant sexual activity (overall Kapp a = 0.62). Participation in vaginal intercourse and condom use was ind ependent of health status. Following extensive educational efforts, mo st HIV-seropositive adolescents and young men with haemophilia are awa re of the relationship between their HIV seropositivity and health sta tus. Waning health status does not reduce participation in penetrative sexual behaviours or increase use of condoms. HIV prevention efforts should continue for this population.