Data from the 2000 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) were analyzed to explore barriers to HIV testing, and intentions to be tested among a nationally representative sample (n = 4,261) of the different Hispanic subgroups living in the United States. Weighted proportions and variances accounting for the complex sample design of the NHIS were estimated using the Taylor series linearization method. Regression estimates are expressed as odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals. Two thirds of sampled Hispanics had never been tested for HIV (excluding blood donations) and 88% expressed no intention to do so in the near future. Many of the factors that influence the likelihood of having been tested in the past also impact on future HIV testing intentions including age, Hispanic subgroup, high-risk status, and self-perceived HIV risk. Compared to Puerto Ricans, Mexicans (odds ratio [OR] = 1.59, 1.1-2.3) and Mexican/Americans (OR = 1.61, 1.1-2.3) were more likely to never have been tested and Cubans were notably more likely to report negative future testing intentions (OR = 5.63, 2.5-12.8). Among Hispanics who reported high-risk status or high/medium self-perceived HIV risk, more than one quarter had never undergone testing and expressed no intention of doing so in the near future. Recognition of the HIV testing barriers identified in this study is valuable for the development and refinement of current strategies that aim to increase HIV testing practices in the heterogeneous U.S. Hispanic population.
This study examined patterns and determinants of seeking online health information among a nationally representative sample of 7,028 Jewish and Arab 7th- through 12th-grade students in 158 schools in Israel. Nearly all respondents (98.7%) reported Internet access, and 52.1% reported having sought online health information in the past year. Arab students (63%) were more likely than Jewish students (48%) to seek online health information. Population-group and sex differences in health topics sought online were identified, although fitness/exercise was most common across groups. Multivariate regression models revealed that having sought health information from other sources was the strongest independent correlate of online health information-seeking among Jews (adjusted odds ratio = 8.93, 95% CI [7.70, 10.36]) and Arabs (adjusted odds ratio = 9.77, 95% CI [7.27, 13.13]). Other factors associated with seeking online health information common to both groups were level of trust in online health information, Internet skill level, having discussed health/medical issues with a health care provider in the past year, and school performance. The most common reasons for not seeking online health information were a preference to receive information from a health professional and lack of interest in health/medical issues. The closing of the digital divide between Jews and Arabs represents a move toward equality. Identifying and addressing factors underpinning online health information-seeking behaviors is essential to improve the health status of Israeli youth and reduce health disparities.
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