New HIV Infections: LGBTQ+ Identity or Intravenous Drug Use

Abstract

By Lauren Davis, Social Work

Advisor: Gary Dick

Presentation ID: 256

Abstract: The HIV/AIDS epidemic began decades ago, but it continues to impact communities in and around Cincinnati. A large portion of the population lives with a preventable disease that can become life-threatening. For a long time, this was perceived to be a problem that only impacted the LGBTQ+ community and was ignored. Research has shown that a growing percentage of new HIV infections are within a different demographic: that of Intravenous Drug Users. This study seeks to examine the relationship between intravenous drug users and new HIV status as well as LGBTQ+ identity and new HIV status. The data collected through the Early Intervention Program in the University of Cincinnati Hospitals shows that both Intravenous Drug Use and LGBTQ+ identity had a similar number of new infections in 2019 and 2018. This is not representative of the state or nationwide data and shows that more research needs to be done about preventing the spread of HIV through both sexual contact and intravenous drug use. These populations have HIV in common, but research needs to be done on what specific interventions are best for each population to bring this global HIV epidemic to a close.