Change in sexual activity 12 months after ART initiation among HIV-positive mozambicans

Cynthia R. Pearson, Susan Cassels, Ann E. Kurth, Pablo Montoya, Mark A. Micek, Stephen S. Gloyd

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

We assessed sexual behaviors before and 12-months after ART initiation among 277 Mozambicans attending an HIV clinic. Measured behaviors included the number of sexual partners, condom use, concurrent relationships, disclosure of HIV status, alcohol use, and partners' serostatus. Compared to before ART initiation, increases were seen 12 months after ART in the proportion of participants who were sexually active (48% vs. 64% respondents, P <0.001) and the proportion of participants with HIV-negative or unknown serostatus partners (45% vs. 80%, P < 0.001). Almost all (96%) concurrent partnerships reported at 12 months formed after ART initiation. Although reported correct and consist condom use increased, the number of unprotected sexual relationships remained the same (n = 45). Non-disclosure of HIV-serostatus to sexual partners was the only significant predictor of practicing unprotected sex with partners of HIV-negative or unknown serostatus. Sexual activity among HIV-positive persons on ART increased 12 months after ART initiation. Ongoing secondary transmission prevention programs addressing sexual activity with multiple partners, disclosure to partners and consistent condom use with serodisconcordant partners must be incorporated throughout HIV care programs.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)778-787
Number of pages10
JournalAIDS and Behavior
Volume15
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2011

Keywords

  • Africa
  • Antiretroviral therapy (ART)
  • Concurrency
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Sexual behavior
  • Unprotected sex

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Social Psychology
  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
  • Infectious Diseases

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