Health and risk behaviors over time among youth living with HIV

Abstract

Health practices and transmission behaviors were examined over time among 25 disabled youth living with HIV (YLH) living in a comprehensive residential care program. YLH were aged 19-24 years (M=23.4 years); 89 per cent of males were gay, bisexual, or transgendered (60% Caucasian); all had physical and mental health problems, as well as substance abuse disorders. YLH were assessed at least four times at 3-month intervals and reported high lifetime rates of sexual and substance-use risk acts. Over four assessments, YLH improved their nutrition and hygiene and decreased their worry about their health status. YLH evidenced no decrease in the frequency of substance use and sexual risk. Depression, self-esteem, and health status also were stable over time. YLH who have a lifetime history of multiple problem behaviors are likely to change slowly over time, even when receiving comprehensive residential care.