Addressing the need for access to culturally and linguistically appropriate HIV/AIDS prevention for Latinos

This article reports a comprehensive national needs assessment of Latinos' access to HIV/AIDS prevention and education services in 14 cities throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. Interviews and focus groups were conducted with Latinos who were HIV-positive and at risk for HIV infection. The study explored risk behaviors, access to health care services, and exposure to HIV prevention messages. Differences in predictors of risk behaviors were noted by sex. For women, increased age, being married, foreign-born, and a U.S. resident, and having tested for HIV previously, were associated with reduced HIV/AIDS risk. Thematic analysis of qualitative findings revealed limited awareness of risk factors, and a need for culturally and linguistically appropriate, family-centered HIV/AIDS education incorporating Latino values. Findings were incorporated into culturally relevant brochures featuring vignettes and quotes. Brochures were distributed and evaluated by 71 community-based organizations (CBOs) in the U.S. and Latin America. Evaluators responded positively to the brochures, and Latino-serving organizations in 48 states now use them for HIV/AIDS prevention outreach and education.