This randomized clinical trial evaluated an HIV-risk reduction (HIV-RR) intervention based on the information-motivation-behavioral skills model. At baseline, 102 women (M age = 29 years; 88% African American) completed a survey regarding HIV-related knowledge, risk perceptions, behavioral intentions, and risk behavior. Participants were then assigned to either the HIV-RR intervention or a health-promotion control group. Postintervention and follow-up data indicated that women in the HIV-RR program enhanced their knowledge and strengthened their risk reduction intentions relative to controls. Moreover, HIV-RR women who expressed "imperfect" intentions also increased their condom use, talked more with partners about condom use and HIV testing, and were more likely to have refused unprotected sex.

Our objective was to determine the priorities of low-income women regarding health, relationship, and social concerns. Street-intercept surveys were conducted with 161 low-income urban women (mean = 27 years, 85% African American, 80% single mothers) regarding their perceptions of the threat associated with 48 health and social problems. Women rated acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) as their most important health, social, or relationship concern. Nearly one half of all women indicated that they would attend risk reduction programs to learn how to avoid infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). AIDS is perceived as a serious threat to women's health, and interventions to reduce risk are welcomed.

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