The epidemiology of HIV/AIDS in women in the southern United States.

Objective: We reviewed data from multiple sources to examine distinguishing features of the HIV epidemic among women in the South.

Goal: The goal of this study was to identify HIV and sexually transmitted disease (STD) prevention research priorities in the South.

Study Design: Cases of HIV/AIDS and STDs were analyzed to compare rates by region and rates in urban versus rural areas. Data from interviews of persons reported with HIV/AIDS from rural areas in 4 southern states compared social and behavioral characteristics of men versus women.

Results: The South is characterized by high AIDS and STD rates. The epidemic among southern women is distinguished by the predominance of heterosexually acquired infection, the disproportionate impact on blacks, the high proportion residing in rural areas, and multiple high-risk behaviors.

Conclusions: Research to identify determinants of high-risk sex and drug-using behaviors among poor, minority men and women in less urban and rural southern regions is needed.