Acquired Immunodeficiency syndrome and adolescents: knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of runaway and homeless youths

Article Abstract:

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the causative agent of AIDS. Intravenous drug use and sexual activity are known risk factors associated with HIV transmission. Adolescents who experiment with drugs and sex increase their risk for HIV infection. Although teenagers account for only one percent of the total cases of AIDS, adults between the ages of 20 and 29 years account for 20 percent of all reported AIDS cases. Since the time interval between exposure to HIV and the development of AIDS is close to 10 years, it is likely that these young adults were exposed to HIV when they were teenagers. A recent study conducted at a New York City shelter for homeless and runaway youths revealed that seven percent of the youths living at the shelter tested positive for HIV. This study and others support the conclusion that HIV is more prevalent among street youths and youths living in shelters. To determine the knowledge, attitudes and behaviors of homeless and runaway youths regarding HIV infection, 101 youths (aged 13 to 20 years) living at a shelter facility in Houston, Texas were asked to complete a questionnaire. Sixty-seven percent of the youths reported having 4 or more sex partners, while only 20 percent said that they always use condoms. Twenty-five percent reported intravenous drug use, 20 percent had shared needles for other purposes, 19 percent had engaged in prostitution, and 16 percent had anal intercourse. The youths were knowledgeable about the various modes of transmission of HIV and most felt that they were not at risk for infection. These findings indicate that homeless and runaway youths have behaviors that are associated with an increased risk for acquiring HIV infection. Educational, social and medical programs are needed to reduce the risk of infection in this population. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Sexually transmitted diseases, Social aspects, Risk factors, Homeless shelters, Homeless youth

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Rate of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 infection from mother to child and short-term outcome of neonatal infection

Article Abstract:

The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1), which causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), has been shown to be readily transmitted from mother to child. Transmission can occur in utero, during delivery, or during breast-feeding. In order to accurately determine the rate of transmission and the time when the child is most at risk, a prospective cohort study was begun. The study was conducted from December 1985 to May 1988. It was found that one of every 58 women who gave birth in New Haven, Connecticut was infected with HIV. A total of 62 infants were studied; they included infants found to be HIV-positive during the first three months of life (indicating that they were infected by their mothers) and infants whose mothers were found to be infected with HIV either before or during their pregnancies. For each child, demographic data and health status (including immune function) were evaluated and they were followed for six months. The children were entered into the program as they were identified: 1 in 1985, 23 in 1986, 29 in 1987, and 9 by May 1988. Based on clinical findings, 14 of the infants had symptoms; 3 had AIDS, 5 had symptoms compatible with HIV-1 infection; and 6 had signs and symptoms that could not specifically be assigned to HIV infection. The results showed the rate of mother-to-child transmission to be less than 30 percent. Some children were followed-up beyond the age of 15 months; the rate of defined HIV-1-associated disease in children of infected mothers during their first three years of life was 16 percent. Continued follow-up of HIV-infected children is required to fully identify outcomes and as basis for planning treatments. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Causes of, Complications and side effects, HIV (Viruses), HIV, AIDS (Disease), AIDS (Disease) in pregnancy, AIDS (Disease) in children, Pediatric AIDS (Disease)

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Reduction in the risk of vertical transmission of HIV-1 associated with treatment of pregnant women with orally administered zidovudine alone

Article Abstract:

Pregnant women who are infected with HIV should receive zidovudine during their pregnancy. Researchers at the Yale-New Haven Hospital tried to find the reasons why the incidence of HIV transmission during pregnancy dropped substantially between 1990 and 1993. Women with CD4 T cell counts below 500 were much more likely to transmit the virus to their babies. Zidovudine use substantially reduced the risk of transmitting the virus, even in those with low CD4 counts. On the other hand, a cesarean section did not substantially reduce the risk of transmitting the virus compared to vaginal delivery.

Health aspects, Diseases, Pregnant women, Zidovudine, HIV infection in pregnancy

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