Structural Factors Affecting HIV and STI Risks in Street Youth
Author Information
Author(s): Marshall Brandon DL, Kerr Thomas, Shoveller Jean A, Montaner Julio SG, Wood Evan
Primary Institution: British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS
Hypothesis
Are structural factors associated with increased sexual risk behaviors among street-involved youth?
Conclusion
The study found that structural factors like homelessness and barriers to health services are linked to higher sexual risk behaviors among street-involved youth.
Supporting Evidence
- 78.4% of participants were sexually active.
- 61.0% reported multiple sex partners.
- 69.4% reported inconsistent condom use.
- Barriers to health services were inversely associated with consistent condom use.
- Homelessness was positively associated with the number of sex partners.
Takeaway
Street kids who don't have homes or can't get health help are more likely to have unsafe sex.
Methodology
The study used a prospective cohort design with interviews and blood samples to assess sexual risk behaviors and structural factors.
Potential Biases
Potential under-reporting of stigmatized behaviors like inconsistent condom use may bias results.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and findings may not be generalizable to other settings.
Participant Demographics
30.1% female, 24.0% Aboriginal ethnicity, 13.0% LGBTT.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.11 – 2.14
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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