Publications by authors named "H K Batson"

Article Synopsis
  • Young men who have sex with men (YMSM) face high rates of drug and alcohol use, leading to increased risks of unprotected sex and contracting HIV.
  • The study developed an intervention targeting MSM aged 15-29 who identify as Black or White and focus on those who engage in episodic substance use, incorporating role model stories and peer outreach.
  • Over 36 months, the intervention showed significantly greater declines in HIV risk scores among participants in Philadelphia compared to a comparison group in Baltimore, particularly for those combining binge drinking or marijuana use with risky sexual behaviors.
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Male adolescents who cycle through the juvenile justice system are at high risk for HIV infection, yet there are few HIV prevention interventions for this high-risk population. This study evaluates the efficacy of Preventing AIDS through Live Movement and Sound (PALMS), an innovative, theory-based HIV risk reduction intervention that uses theatrical performances and role-play. The study used a nonrandomized concurrent comparison group design.

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We evaluated the effects on drug use and sexual risk of an HIV intervention for out-of-treatment drug users, and assessed the effect of drug use on unprotected sex with main and non-main partners. The intervention significantly reduced unprotected sex with a main partner, but did not affect drug use or unprotected sex with non-main partners. Participants who stopped using drugs by follow-up were less likely to have unprotected sex with both main and other partners.

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Improving our understanding of how individuals decide to take an HIV test is essential for designing effective programs to increase testing. This paper assesses the relationship of decisional balance and perceived risk to HIV testing history in a cross-sectional community sample of 1523 HIV-negative men and women at risk due to drug use or sexual behavior. We developed scales to measure perceived advantages (pros) and perceived disadvantages (cons) of taking an HIV test and assessed their content using factor analysis.

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Article Synopsis
  • The study assessed HIV testing rates among high-risk heterosexual men and women, finding that 79.4% had tested, with women testing more than men.
  • Individual-level risky behaviors had minimal impact on testing likelihood, while structural factors like healthcare access were significant for both genders.
  • To enhance HIV testing among high-risk heterosexual men, the study suggests improving their access to routine healthcare services.
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