AEGiS-APPJ: HIV Risk Behaviors during Incarceration among Intravenous-Drug Users in Bangkok, Thailand: A Qualitative Approach

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2002. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

HIV Risk Behaviors during Incarceration among Intravenous-Drug Users in Bangkok, Thailand: A Qualitative Approach

AIDS & Public Policy Journal 17, no. 3 (Fall 2002) 77-89
Aumphornpun Buavirat, Rachel Sacks, and Sithisat Chiamwongpaet

The purpose of this study was to collect qualitative pilot data pertaining to the conditions of HIV risk within correctional facilities in Thailand; 24 interviews were conducted with men who previously had been in prison and presently were attending a detoxification program at one of the government-run narcotics rehabilitation clinics in Bangkok. Questions were posed to the respondents regarding HIV awareness, drug use, sexual practices, and other potential risk behaviors within the correctional environment. Despite demonstrating a high level of HIV-related knowledge, the respondents reported a high prevalence of drug use, sexual activity, and tattooing within the entire correctional system. These pilot data point to an urgent need for further exploration of HIV risk in jails and prisons using both epidemiological and sociological survey methods. The data also indicate an impetus for immediate implementation of HIV-risk reduction programs throughout the correctional system in Thailand.
020915
APPJ021703-01

AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted grants from Boehringer Ingelheim, Elton John AIDS Foundation, Bridgestone/Firestone Charitable Trust, the National Library of Medicine, and donations from users like you. Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2002. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.

AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.

Copyright ©1986, 2002. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .