HIV-1 ANTIBODY TESTING AMONG DRUG-USERS PARTICIPATING IN AIDS EDUCATION

This study aimed to identify factors which predict participation of dr ug users in HIV-1 antibody testing. The study was part of a randomized controlled trial of three small group AIDS educational programs, in a 21-day in-patient drug detoxification and rehabilitation program. Sub jects (n = 497) were clients admitted to the program who consented to participate in the evaluation and who completed baseline data collecti on. All subjects received pre-test counseling. Testing was offered aft er 1 week in treatment; 52% decided to be tested. Factors which predic ted participation in testing included: no previously reported positive result, a longer stay in treatment, a greater frequency of injection, a greater perceived probability of being infected, and the type of AI DS education. Both actual and perceived level of risk, and the type of AIDS education provided can affect participation in testing programs.