Knowledge of HIV/AIDS in Texas-Mexico Border Colonias: A Pilot Study

Abstract

This study examines the knowledge of HIV/AIDS among colonia residents in the Texas-Mexican border region. Spanish and English versions of questionnaires were developed to ask a series of public health questions about HIV/AIDS knowledge. One hundred twelve colonia residents completed the questionnaire. Sixty-two percent of the questionnaire respondents reported United States citizenship while 29 percent were Mexican nationals. Respondents answered questions about various public health dimensions of HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention. Results indicate that colonia residents need more knowledge of HIV/AIDS. For example, it is important to know the difference between being HIV infected and having AIDS. A significant number of residents lack knowledge of prevention techniques and how HIV is transmitted. The condusion is that a culturally sensitive prevention program in both English and Spanish is necessary to prevent HIV/AIDS transmission among colonia residents in the U.S.-Mexican border area.