Abstract

Background: To examine differences between lower and higher frequency alcohol users in sexual behaviors and psychosocial correlates of risk for HIV among young African-American females.

Methods: Data were collected from sexually active African-American females aged 15-20 years, seeking services at a STD clinic in Atlanta, GA, to assess sexual behavior, correlates of risk, and a non-disease biological marker of unprotected vaginal sex.

Results: Number of drinking occasions was significantly related to three of four psychosocial correlates and with all selfreporting sexual behavior measures. Also, heavier drinking per occasion was associated with the presence of semen in vaginal fluid.

Conclusion: Non-abuse levels of drinking were related to increased sexual risk-taking in this sample of young African- American females. Incorporating messages about the intersection of alcohol use and sexual decision making into HIV/STD prevention programs would strengthen STD prevention messaging in this vulnerable population.

Keywords: Adolescents, alcohol, HIV/STD, psychosocial correlates, sexual risk behaviors.