T Cells and Jail Cells: A Comparative Analysis of Demographic and Behavioral Factors by HIV Status within the DC Jail Restricted; Files Only
Okereke, Chisom (Spring 2023)
Published
Abstract
Introduction: Despite decreasing rates of HIV diagnoses in recent years, intersecting racial disparities in incarceration rates and HIV disease burdens have culminated in disproportionately high HIV prevalence within correctional facilities. This study seeks to determine if there are any significant demographic and behavioral differences between persons living with HIV (PLWH) and high-risk negative persons (HRNPs) within the District of Columbia’s Department of Corrections’ (DCDC) Jail.
Methods: Using responses from a 30–60-minute audio computer-assisted self-interviewing (ACASI) data collection system, we conducted univariate logistic regression analyses to obtain odds ratios of predictors for the outcome of HIV status. A secondary logistic regression analysis was conducted looking at the same outcomes adjusted for age.
Results: Of the total cohort, 72 individuals (75%) identified as HRNP while 24 individuals (25%) identified as PLWH. The unadjusted univariate logistic regression revealed that predictors such as prior syphilis diagnosis, having a main partner that is living with HIV, engaging in condomless anal intercourse (CAI), and marijuana use were significantly related to HIV status. However, after controlling for age, the number of significant predictors decreased. The adjusted odds ratios showed that the only predictors that are associated with HIV status are the HIV status of a main partner and marijuana use. The odds of being a PLWH was 3.59 (1.33 , 9.69; p=0.012) times higher than the odds of being a HRNP given that one’s main-partner was also living with HIV. Furthermore, the odds of being a PLWH was 0.23 (0.05 , 0.95; p=0.043) times the odds of being a HRNP given that one used marijuana.
Discussion: There are demographic and behavioral factors that may predict one’s HIV status in a US correctional setting. However, the differences that arise in the present day are less pervasive and widespread than what was seen at the beginning of the HIV epidemic, especially between HRNP and PLWH. This suggests a surprisingly narrow divide between these two groups. Continued investment in prevention measures such as PrEP for HRNP must be prioritized, especially in a carceral setting which may serve as an ideal linkage to care for some populations.
Table of Contents
ABSTRACT………………………………………………………………………………4
LITERATURE REVIEW…………………………………………………………………5
INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………………….11
METHODS………………………………………………………………………………11
RESULTS……………………………………………………………………………….13
DISCUSSION…………………………………………………………………………...16
CONCLUSION………………………………………………………………………….19
NEXT STEPS……………………………………………………………………………21
TABLES AND FIGURES……………………………………………………………….22
REFERENCES…………………………………………………………………………..30
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File download under embargo until 18 May 2025 | 2023-04-20 17:22:28 -0400 | File download under embargo until 18 May 2025 |
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