AIDS and hemophilia: implications for interventions with families

Informational needs of hemophiliacs must first be assessed to develop effective educational and prevention programs. A survey of 132 hemophilia patients and family members was conducted to determine the information needs, the preferred source of information and the patients' knowledge of AIDS. Results indicated that the major source of information for the patients was the media; the preferred source was the hemophilia treatment center. Most patients wanted more information about the treatment of AIDS and how to cope with the stresses of AIDS. Although patients indicated that they had received sufficient information about the sexual transmission of AIDS, answers to knowledge questions indicated important misconceptions. Results are discussed with respect to the development of educational and prevention programs for hemophiliacs and their families.