Epidemiological Profile Of HIV In New York Mabel Haye Grand

Epidemiological profile of HIV in New York Mabel Haye Grand Canyon University PUB-/06/21

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a condition that affects human beings causing a weak immune system (CDC, 2019). The HIV virus attacks CD4 cells or T cells, which are responsible for the adaptive immune response of the body. Consequently, the virus weakens the body's overall response to other infections and can lead to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). If untreated, HIV can result in death due to opportunistic diseases. HIV is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids such as semen, vaginal fluids, blood, saliva, and others. It can be contracted via unprotected sexual relations, maternal transmission to the unborn, blood transfusions, and unhygienic practices like using unsterilized scalpels. Despite ongoing efforts to contain it, HIV persists due to numerous factors beyond the healthcare system’s control, making it a 'medical wicked problem' with complex social, behavioral, and structural influences.

This epidemiological profile of HIV focuses on the statistics of HIV prevalence in New York State and the United States, highlighting social, demographic, behavioral, and geographic factors contributing to its spread and persistence. Understanding these factors is essential for decision-makers, program planners, and NGOs combating HIV. Demographic data reveals that in New York, the population is diverse, with significant racial and age variations, affecting HIV dynamics. Recognizing these characteristics can inform targeted interventions.

The sources of data for this research include the HIV surveillance annual report and CDC statistics. In 2019, approximately 1.1 million people in the U.S. were living with HIV, with one out of seven unaware of their status (Miami Times, 2020). The CDC report (2018) indicated that 1.2 million Americans aged 13+ had HIV; about 161,800 were undiagnosed, with 37,968 new cases in that year. The age distribution mainly affects young adults aged 20-34, who accounted for a significant proportion of new diagnoses, highlighting their vulnerability.

In New York State, the HIV diagnosis rate was 14.1 per 100,000, with males disproportionately affected—23.4 per 100,000 compared to 5.5 among females. Ethnically, Black Americans had the highest diagnosis rate (41.4 per 100,000), followed by Hispanics (27.8), whites (3.8), Asians (4.14), and Native Americans (4.9). This disparity underscores the impact of social determinants and structural inequalities in HIV prevalence.

Analysis of these data reveals that HIV prevalence peaks among the age group 18-54, which aligns with active sexual engagement. Young adults, particularly those aged 18-30, are most vulnerable due to increased likelihood of unprotected sex, multiple partners, and substance use, which impair judgment and increase risky behaviors (UNAIDS, 2020). Drug use, especially injectable drugs, further elevates risk since sharing needles facilitates direct blood-to-blood transmission of HIV.

Socioeconomic factors play a pivotal role; individuals from low-income backgrounds often lack access to education about HIV prevention, adequate healthcare, and resources like condoms. Their living conditions and mental health status, including depression and substance abuse, predispose them to risky sexual activities and poor health-seeking behavior (Saha et al., 2021). Domestic violence and sexual harassment further heighten HIV risk among women, especially heterosexual African American and Hispanic females, due to forced or coerced unprotected sex (CDC, 2020).

Despite widespread awareness campaigns, risky sexual behaviors persist owing to behavioral, cultural, and structural barriers. Many individuals engage in unprotected sex despite knowledge of prevention methods, indicating that knowledge alone doesn't change behavior. The Theory of Planned Behavior suggests that attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control influence sexual risk-taking (Ajzen, 1991). Understanding these psychological factors is critical for designing effective interventions.

Research gaps include limited insights into the behavioral motivations behind continued risky sexual activities despite awareness. There's also insufficient exploration of social and cultural norms influencing decision-making, as well as barriers to HIV testing and treatment uptake. Addressing these gaps requires qualitative studies examining individual and community-level attitudes and beliefs. Implementing tailored interventions based on behavioral understanding could enhance prevention efforts, especially among high-risk groups like young adults, minority men who have sex with men, and women exposed to violence or economic hardship.

Conclusion

HIV remains a significant public health challenge in New York and the broader United States. Its prevalence among young adults, minority populations, and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups highlights the influence of behavioral and social determinants. Despite extensive knowledge about prevention, risky sexual behaviors persist due to complex attitudes, norms, and structural barriers. Addressing these requires a multifaceted approach integrating education, behavioral change strategies, increased access to healthcare, and social support systems. Future research should focus on understanding the underlying motivations for risky behaviors and developing culturally sensitive, psychologically informed interventions. Only through such comprehensive efforts can the goal of reducing HIV transmission and achieving better health equity be realized.

References

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  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2019). HIV Surveillance Report, 2019; vol. 31.
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  • Saha, S., et al. (2021). Structural determinants of HIV risk among low-income populations: A review. Journal of Public Health, 43(2), 246–259.
  • UNAIDS. (2020). Global AIDS Update 2020. Retrieved from https://www.unaids.org/en/resources/documents/2020/global-aids-report
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