Lifestyle modifications of HIV-infected adults after knowledge of diagnosis

Using a descriptive design, this study sought to identify lifestyle modifications of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-infected adults after knowledge of diagnosis. A sample of 101 HIV-infected adults from a multi-purpose, multi-ethnic primary health care center completed the Self-Rated Abilities and Health Practices Scale (SAHPS) and the Risk Behavior Assessment (RBA). Study findings indicated that over 91% of the sample changed their behavior after diagnosis. Correlational analysis utilizing Pearson\u27s r revealed that changes in behavior showed significant correlations (p\u3c.01) with frequent use of condoms, and sexual communication skills (p\u3c.01). Other behavior changes included sexual abstinence, reduced number of sexual partners, and reduced number of times of sexual intercourse. Analysis of these findings suggest an increased awareness of safe sex practice and that condom use is the preferred method for preventing the spread or contraction of HIV