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HIV seroprevalence in a chronically mentally ill population
D L Stewart1, C J Zuckerman, J M Ingle
1Department of Family Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore 21201.
Journal of the National Medical Association
|July 1, 1994
Summary
This study found a 5.8% human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection rate in chronically mentally ill patients. Intravenous drug use was a significant risk factor, especially among female patients and homeless individuals.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Chronically mentally ill populations are at risk for infectious diseases.
- Understanding human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence and risk factors is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of HIV infection in chronically mentally ill patients.
- To identify risk factors associated with HIV infection within this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted on 533 patients admitted to Maryland state psychiatric hospitals between August 1990 and July 1991.
- Data collection included demographic information and risk behaviors.
- Unlinked HIV antibody testing was performed on routine blood samples.
Main Results:
- The overall HIV prevalence was 5.8% (31 out of 533 patients).
- HIV prevalence was significantly higher among female patients reporting intravenous drug use (36.4%) compared to males (14.5%).
- Homeless patients had a 10.1% HIV prevalence, with 88.9% reporting intravenous drug use. A notable 4.1% of patients unaware of their status were HIV-infected.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms a significant risk of HIV infection among individuals with chronic mental illness.
- There is a critical need for developing tailored HIV risk reduction programs for this vulnerable population.
- Increased awareness and testing are essential for managing HIV in chronically mentally ill patients.