SUBSTANCES USE AMONG SOCIALLY DISADVANTAGED WOMEN: AN HIV/AIDS RISK FACTOR

Abstract

Background: The epidemiologica/ characterization of H/V/AIDS in Chile points to the feminization , pauperization and heterosexualization of the epidemic, which indicates increased risk far social/y disadvantaged women. When the use of substances is added to this, the vu/nerability of this group in terms of HIV is magnified. Objective: To describe substance use in social/y disadvantaged women and to identify HIV/AIDS risk factors associated with it. Material and Method: 52  women  were  interviewed  as part of the project 'Testing an HIV prevention intervention in Chi/ean women" GRANT# R01 TW 006977. Socio­ demographic variables, substance use, as we/1 as risk factors far HIV/AIDS are described using descriptive stats, and the relationship between variables is analyzed using correlation tests. Results: The results revea/ a socio- demographic profile that places women in a vulnerable situation regarding transmission of HIV/ A/OS, with high indices of substance use amplifying risk. Conclusions: These findings indicate the need far interventions focusing on HIV prevention in women that incorporate the risks associated with the consumption of substances. Key Words: e/, ,.