Race/Sex Interactions and HIV Testing Among College Students

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Disparities

Background:

• HIV testing rates vary significantly among college student demographics.
• Understanding race/sex interactions is crucial for effective HIV prevention strategies.
• Historically Black Universities (HBUs) serve diverse student populations with unique health needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine race/sex interactions and behavioral/demographic factors influencing past-year HIV testing among college students.
• To investigate the relationship between race/sex interactions and multiple sex partnerships.
• To identify specific subgroups of college students at higher risk for lower HIV testing rates.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to 566 sexually active undergraduate students (Black and White) at a diverse HBU.
• Participants were recruited from 113 randomly selected undergraduate classes.
• Data collected included demographics, sexual behavior, STD diagnosis, and HIV testing history.

Main Results:

• 58% of students reported HIV testing in the past year; however, 42% remained untested.
• Black men, White women, and White men were significantly less likely to be tested for HIV than Black women.
• Residing off-campus and reporting multiple sex partners increased the likelihood of HIV testing.

Conclusions:

• While past-year HIV testing rates are promising, a significant proportion of sexually active students remain untested.
• Targeted prevention initiatives are essential, particularly for heterosexual Black male college students.
• Campus health programs should emphasize the importance of frequent HIV testing and address specific demographic disparities.