Evidence

HIV/AIDS is a global public health issue and its transmission in a defined geographic region is influenced by the interplay of sociodemographic and behavioral factors. This paper emphasizes the need for a better understanding of sociodemographic characteristics of HIV-positive individuals to prevent the spread of HIV in the general population. It aims to identify the association between HIV prevalence and sociodemographic characteristics of pregnant women aged 15–49 years attending the antenatal clinics (ANCs) in six Southern states of India. It found the highest prevalence of HIV in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, followed by Telangana, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. In all states, the prevalence was highest among illiterate pregnant women, exception being Kerala, wherein the prevalence was highest in pregnant women with schooling up to primary education. A significant association was found between HIV prevalence and spouse occupation in Karnataka and Odisha and spouse migration in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. This study recommends the need for improvising interventions for young, illiterates, married to a migrant or truckers/hotel staff. It is a useful resource for those engaged in managing HIV interventions. Click here to read the paper.