Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1989. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
THE HETEROSEXUAL TRANSMISSION OF HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (HIV)
Diss Abstr Int [B]; 48(9):2618 1988. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE ICDB/89647780 Padian NS; Univ. of California, Berkeley, CA
Abstract:
This study investigated the frequency of heterosexual transmission of HIV, and the factors that influence this transmission. First, related data were examined in a critical review of the literature and scientific evidence that bears upon these issues. The conclusion of this review was that a widespread heterosexual epidemic was unlikely to occur in the United States. However, we are likely to see 'pockets' of epidemic spread in communities that mimic demographic and sociological factors found in African communities, where the prevalence of HIV infection and heterosexual transmission is believed to be much higher than reported here. One such community may be Belle Glade, Florida. To examine these issues, a heterosexual partner study was conducted. In this study, results on male-to-female transmission were examined separately from data on female-to-male transmission. Male-to-female transmission of HIV is not uncommon. About 20% of the long-term sexual partners of infected men developed antibodies to HIV. Transmission was unrelated to the disease status in the male partner and to the general level of heterosexual activity in the female partners (as defined by number of male sexual partners and number of sexually transmitted diseases). Transmission was associated with repeated exposures to the infected male partner and to the practice of anal intercourse, although some of the infected women most likely became infected through vaginal intercourse. Use of condoms was somewhat protective, although this trend was not statistically significant. Female-to-male transmission of HIV infection remains uncommon as a means of potential exposure and infection. It is difficult to find men who began sexual contact with a woman after she was infected. Eight such men were followed and, despite sustained high-risk contacts, none of the men were infected. Obviously, larger samples need to be recruited before generalizations about these results can be made with any confidence. Future studies need to be conducted with large enough sample sizes to assess bidirectional heterosexual transmission. These studies should include detailed virologic and immunologic studies of factors that affect transmission. Partner studies can also be used as vehicles to disseminate information and education to high-risk and potential exposed individuals. (Full text available from University Microfilms International, Ann Arbor, MI, as Order No: AAD87-26325)
Keywords: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/*TRANSMISSION *Disease Outbreaks Female Human HIV Male Risk Factors *Sex Behavior United States THESIS
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Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1989. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
