CORRELATES OF HIV-1 SEROPOSITIVITY AMONG YOUNG MEN IN THAILAND

Geographic and demographic correlates of risk for HIV-1 seropositivity were studied in 120,216 young men selected by lottery for service in the Royal Thai Army (RTA). The study population consisted of men selec ted between November 1991 and May 1993. Venous blood was collected at induction, and a brief demographic questionnaire was administered. HIV -1 seropositivity was established by Western blot confirmation of dupl icate reactive ELISAs. Geographic variables provided the strongest cor relate of risk, clearly distinguishing residents of the upper north, B angkok, and the central region from the northeast. Overall 12.2% of me n from the upper north were HIV-positive. Men who had lived in rural a reas were at less risk in most regions of the country, but had equal r isk in the upper north. Unmarried men and these with less education we re at higher risk throughout the country, These data provide valuable information on the prevalence of HIV infection in one segment of the g eneral population. Continued surveillance of this group will facilitat e evaluation of Thailand's response to the epidemic.