Study Examines Effect of Religious Belief on Spread of HIV
"Religiosity, Denominational Affiliation and Sexual Behaviors Among People With HIV in the U.S.," Journal of Sex Research: The study, issued by RAND, finds that HIV-positive people who say religion is an important component of their lives are more likely to have fewer sexual partners and less likely to practice high-risk sexual behavior than other HIV-positive people. The study asked participants about how important religion is in their lives, if they identify with a specific religious group, if they prefer being with people who share the same religious beliefs, and how often they participate in religious or spiritual services. According to David Kanouse, a RAND senior behavioral scientists and study author, the study did not determine which specific element of religiosity influenced sexual behavior. He added that moral belief and participation in a faith community likely are important factors. "This study suggests that there's a role for religious institutions to play in the fight against the spread of HIV," Frank Galvan, lead study author and professor at the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, said, adding, "Religiosity is an untapped resource in the whole struggle against HIV and AIDS and should be looked at more thoroughly." The study was conducted among 1,421 people receiving HIV-related medical care, 932 of whom reported recent sexual activity (RAND release, 4/3).This is part of the KHN Morning Briefing, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.