HIV risk behavior patterns, predictors, and sexually transmitted disease prevalence in the social networks of young Roma (Gypsy) men in Sofia, Bulgaria

Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Elena KabakchievaElena Petrova

Abstract

This research studied predictors of high-risk sexual practices and sexually transmitted disease (STD) prevalence among Roma (Gypsy) men's social networks in Sofia, Bulgaria. Fifty-four socially active individuals, approached in Roma neighborhood venues, recruited members (n = 296) of their own networks into the study. Participants completed sociometric and risk behavior interviews and were tested for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomonas. Men had a mean of 7 partners in the past year. Fifty-nine percent had multiple partners in the past 3 months. Seventy-three percent reported recent unprotected vaginal and 51% unprotected anal intercourse. Fifty-nine percent of men had sex with other men in the past year. Twenty-two percent had one of the STDs. The social network to which an individual belonged accounted for 23% to 27% of variance in predicting sexual risk behavior. One's social network was the most powerful predictor of HIV risk behavior. HIV/STD prevention interventions directed toward entire social networks are especially promising.

Associated Clinical Trials

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May 29, 2008·Archives of Sexual Behavior·Theo G M Sandfort, Brian Dodge
Mar 1, 2012·Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health·Yuri A AmirkhanianRoman A Khoursine
Apr 4, 2009·Transboundary and Emerging Diseases·B Martínez-LópezJ M Sánchez-Vizcaíno
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Oct 24, 2020·International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·Kabir Tombat, Jitse P van Dijk

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