Abstract

BASSICHETTO, Kátia Cristina et al. Epidemiological profile of HIV positive individuals from a HIV/STD Counseling and Testing Center (CTA) in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. Rev. bras. epidemiol. [online]. 2004, vol.7, n.3, pp. 302-310. ISSN 1415-790X.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S1415-790X2004000300008.

STD/HIV Counseling and Testing Centers (CTA) provide serological testing for HIV and syphilis, among other activities. These centers collect and register data systematically, and thus allow profiling of HIV-positive individuals. The present study presents the epidemiological profile of HIV-positive individuals who attended a high-demand center from January 2001 to December 2002. Data from serological tests with positive results and information recorded during the interviews (pre- and post-testing) were used as sources. During the period, there were 470 (4%) positive results, out of 10,657 tests performed. Most HIV-positive individuals were male (81.4%); the average age among all positive individuals was 32.3 years; 75% were employed; 41% of HIV-positive females and 77% males were single (p<0.001). Regarding exposure category, 36% of individuals classified themselves as homosexuals, 34% as heterosexuals and 27% as bisexuals. A very large percentage reported having multiple partners (82%) and 32% claimed to always use condoms.

Keywords : Counseling and Testing Centers; STD, HIV; Men who have sex with men; Condom use; Positive test results for HIV.