HIV-related behaviors and perceptions among adults in 25 states: 1997 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System

To assess the level of HIV-related risk behavior among the general US adult population, we analyzed data from the first sexual behavior questions available for states to use with the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.

The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System is a state-specific, population-based, random telephone survey. In 1997, 25 states collected sexual behavior data. Annual prevalence estimates for selected behaviors were calculated and examined by sociodemographic characteristics. The correlation between actual and perceived HIV risk also was determined.

Most (77.1%) of the respondents reported just 1 sexual partner in the past year; 26.0% reported using a condom at last intercourse. Males, persons who were younger, and Blacks were more likely to report 2 or more partners but also more likely to report using a condom at last intercourse. Only 4.1% of the respondents reported a risk factor for HIV infection; 7.7% reported that they were at medium or high risk for HIV. Actual and perceived HIV risk were positively associated.

Most US adults do not engage in HIV-related risk behavior; those that do are more likely to report protective behavior.