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Copyright of Revista Salud UIS is the property of Universidad Industrial de Santander and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Iustitia is the property of Universidad Santo Tomas, Bucaramanga and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Salud UIS is the property of Universidad Industrial de Santander and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: To determine factors associated with mortality in tuberculosis/HIV co-infected patients in Cali, Colombia Methods: This retrospective cohort design included tuberculosis/HIV co-infected persons. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression were used to estimate survival and risk factors associated with mortality. Results: Of the 279 tuberculosis/HIV co-infected participants, 27.2% died during the study. Participants mainly were adults and males. CD4 count information was available for 41.6% (the median count was 83 cells/mm3), and half were subject to tuberculosis susceptibility testing. The median time between HIV diagnosis and antiretroviral therapy initiation was 372 days. HIV was identified prior to tuberculosis in 53% and concurrent HIV-tuberculosis were diagnosed in 37% of patients. 44.8% had tuberculosis treatment success. Body mass index above 18 kg/m2, initiation of tuberculosis treatment within two weeks, having any health insurance coverage and CD4 count information conferred a survival advantage. Conclusions: Delays in treatment initiation and factors associated with limited health care access or utilization were associated with mortality. As HIV and tuberculosis are both reportable conditions in Colombia, strategies should be focused on optimizing treatment outcomes within both tuberculosis and HIV programs, particularly improving early HIV diagnosis, early antiretroviral therapy treatment initiation, and adherence to tuberculosis treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Biomédica: Revista del Instituto Nacional de Salud is the property of Instituto Nacional de Salud of Colombia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Biomédica: Revista del Instituto Nacional de Salud is the property of Instituto Nacional de Salud of Colombia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Biomédica: Revista del Instituto Nacional de Salud is the property of Instituto Nacional de Salud of Colombia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Médicas UIS is the property of Universidad Industrial de Santander and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Saúde e Sociedade is the property of Universidade de Sao Paulo, Faculdade de Saude Publica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Colombiana de Psiquiatria is the property of Asociacion Colombiana de Psiquiatria and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Biomédica: Revista del Instituto Nacional de Salud is the property of Instituto Nacional de Salud of Colombia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Avances en Enfermería is the property of Editorial Universidad Nacional de Colombia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The AIDS phobia is a persistent, abnormal and unjustified fear of contracting HIV. The objective of this study was to adapt and validate MAPS in Colombian adolescents. Participants included 856 students aged 14-19 years who responded to the MAPS and other self-reports to analyze its validity (including knowledge about STIs, attitude towards HIV and health anxiety). Factor analysis confirmed the bifactorial structure (F1: fear of infection and F2: fear of others), according to the original version. Evidence of reliability and validity was obtained consistently with the theory. The application of MAPS is appropriate for assessing fear of HIV/AIDS and to study its relationship with sexual risk factors (e.g. condom use, multiple sexual partners) at research and community levels in Colombia. It also can be useful for assessing the impact of social campaigns to reduce stigma towards HIV and prevention programs aimed at promoting healthy sexuality in adolescents through the transmission of adequate knowledge and more favorable attitudes toward people living with HIV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The National Response Framework for HIV / AIDS infection in Colombia (In Spanish, Plan Nacional de Respuesta ante la Infección del VIH/Sida) emphasizes the promotion of knowledge, attitudes, behaviors and practices for the development of an autonomous, responsible and pleasurable sexuality. Objective: To identify risk behaviors for transmission of HIV / AIDS in adolescents and young people from private universities in the municipality of Villavicencio. Method: A descriptive study. Multistage probability sampling design. Population: 10,324 students-IP 2014 (n = 357). Error: 1%; confidence level: 95%. The survey Conocimientos was used for gathering information as well as, practices and counseling in voluntary testing for HIV in young people aged 15 to 24, the program that was used to process information was SPSS v. 14. Results: 95% of students have knowledge about HIV / AIDS. The main source of information is television programs (28.6%). 51.6% had their first intercourse before age 16; 32.5% between 17 and 19 years. 31.9% did not use a condom at first intercourse. 86.6% believe that AIDS can be prevented by using condoms. From all respondents, 35.5% have had a sexual partner in the last year, 37.2% between 2 and 4 sexual partners, 13.4% more than 5. 31.1% did not use condoms in their last relationship. Conclusions: The study suggests that the risky sexual practices from the population studied is the early onset of sexual relations, there is also a significant predominance of non-condom use despite of the fact that they identify it as a way of preventing HIV infection. It is important to develop educational strategies for health promotion in university context that encourage healthy lifestyles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to analyze how the prevention of HIV infection in Colombia -- from the 1980s until now -- has taken place, given that it is one of the main measures to control infection. We present the epidemiological context in the world and in Colombia, the development of the prevention of infection, and conclude with some reflections on the gaps and realities of what has characterized HIV prevention in our environment. Methodology: we analyzed papers and scientific articles in Spanish, English, and Portuguese from 2000 to 2016, available in PubMed Lilacs, Ebsco, Medline, Justor, and Scielo. Seventy-five articles were reviewed out of which twenty-nine selected. Conclusions: HIV prevention must move from the assistance-based approach to policies that promote human, social, and economic development, without leaving aside the fact that the general population is at risk of acquiring the infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe sexual behaviors of HIV positive patients in three cities of Colombia, before and after learning diagnosis and to identify changes. Methodology: Quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study, with participation of 85 individuals from three cities of Colombia who were interviewed during 2011. Ethical standards for research involving individuals were met during the study. The SPSS software version 18.0 was used for statistical analysis. Results: Significant differences were found when comparing their sexual behavior before and after knowing HIV positive diagnosis, 23.0% of respondents said that they had not resumed sexual activity, 62.5% of the patients began to use the condom in all sexual relations. Sex with HIV-positive people increased a 35.4%. Sexually transmitted infections were reduced to a 12.3%. The consumption of alcohol prior to the onset of sexual intercourse decreased to 31.8%. Conclusions: Changes were found regarding risky behaviors of people after knowing the diagnosis; however, such modifications are not enough regarding the transmission of a deadly infection and with high social and economic costs. [Arcila-Rivera, AP, Toro-López, LA, Cañaveral-Orozco, JD, González-Lozano, D, Henao-González, LD, Carmén-Dussan, L, Ramírez-Castaño, M. Sexual behaviors in over 18 years old with a diagnosis of HIV/AIDS in three cities of Colombia 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction People who use heroin and cocaine have more sexual activity, risk behaviors associated with injection and inconsistent condom use, increasing the risk of sexually transmitted infections and the presence of HIV. Objective To identify socio-demographic factors, sexual behavior and injection heroin risk in users, according to additional consumption of cocaine in five cities in Colombia. Method 1017 injecting drug users over 18 years were surveyed; by sampling generated by the respondent, reasons of raw prevalence (OR) were calculated and adjusted through logistic regression, with their respective according to cocaine consumption. Results 60% of injected heroin users also used cocaine; this population were largely male, unmarried, under 25 years, belonging to low socioeconomic status and involved in dealing drugs. Risk behaviors in the last injection of the drug were higher in those who also used cocaine. Condom use at last intercourse was lower and a higher prevalence of HIV was observed in cocaine users. Discussion and conclusion It was determined that injecting drug users who use cocaine are faced with a high probability of HIV and less condom use, as well as greater sexual risk behavior and related to injection. Attention is required with preventive and social measures to reduce the use of psychoactive drugs, polydrug use and the consequences of these drugs in Colombia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Ciencias de la Salud is the property of Colegio Mayor de Nuestra Senora del Rosario and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Médicas UIS is the property of Universidad Industrial de Santander and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective. To explore possible associations between self-reported prevalence of catastrophic illnesses such as chronic renal failure, HIV/AIDS and cancer and a set of structural social determinants. Methods. Ecological study using data from the 2005 Population Census conducted by the National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE), focusing on municipalities in the Colombian department of Valle del Cauca that experienced the highest prevalence rates for catastrophic illnesses during 2000-2005. Associations were measured with Pearson's chi-squared statistic and Fisher's Exact Test. Prevalence ratios were calculated, with 95% confidence intervals. Results. Statistically significant associations were observed between catastrophic illnesses and social structural determinants in the form of illiteracy, deficient sanitary infrastructure, quality of housing units and access to health services. Conclusions. A role was observed for social determination of catastrophic illnesses in this context. However, additional analyses are required that recognize the complexity of health determining processes and that explore the interrelationships among social, structural, behavioral and psychosocial determinants in depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Tuberculosis is one of the oldest diseases that have affected humans, being in the past the main cause of death in young people and currently, is a serious health public problem in Colombia. Despite there are preventive means to avoid their increase in the community, the tuberculosis incidence has been increasing in our country. So, it is necessary to strengthen the primary and secondary prevention measures that lead to improve the patients' life quality, ensuring the effectiveness and timeliness of the bacteriological diagnosis and cutting the transmission chain from a sick person to a healthy person by searching, early discovery and treatment of the patient. The partnerships among health institutions must be strengthened in order to develop and implement community engagement strategies for the prevention and disease control. Notwithstanding having new insights into the biology and epidemiology of this entity and getting effectively alter the natural history of the disease, it has not been completely eradicated due to multiple reasons, such as drug resistance, the association with HIV AIDS, and migration of people (displaced people), which gives a challenge to achieve the objectives set by public health programs worldwide. The aim of this paper is to obtain a broad view of the disease, from its first appearances up to the present; by reviewing some aspects of the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of it. Methodology: Some researches were performed in databases and search engines from the period 1978 to 2014. 128 articles were selected for this. Conclusions: The spread of TB, it is not more than a reflection of the sharp deterioration in the living conditions of millions of people worldwide and it keeps on being an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, which it exacerbated in recent years by several factors, including infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the multidrug resistance emergence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: HIV/AIDS is a global health priority. About 40% of new infections occur among heterosexual youth by means of sexual contact. In Cali, comune 13, 15 and 20 account for 11.5% of the prevalent cases and 18.0 % of incident cases. Objective: To establish any differences in risk behaviors for HIV among young people 15-24 yrs of age from two areas of Cali, Colombia. Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional study among young people between 15 and 24 years of age in these comunes. The selection was done with a two-stage probability sampling. We estimated the prevalence of sexual relationships without condom usage, sex with multiple partners, and sex under the effects of alcohol and through logistical regression we identified the related factors. Results: In comunes 13, 15 and 20, the prevalence of unprotected sexual relationships in the last 12 months and the prevalence of sex with two or more partners was 70%; and 38% of young people had sex under the effects of alcohol. In both areas, the intention was positively related to the risk behaviors. We found socio-demographic factors, intentions, and beliefs that increase the opportunity to display these behaviors. The effect of these factors differs by comune. Conclusions: We observed a high prevalence of risk behaviors for HIV related to socio-demographic factors, intentions and beliefs that warrant interventions appropriate for local realities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Investigaciones ANDINA is the property of Fundacion Universitaria del Area Andina and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: to determine HIV presence and risk behaviors of persons of low socio-economic status in the city of Popayan- Colombia. Methods: Cross-sectional study; between 2008 and 2009, 363 participants of Popayan signed informed consent and received pre and post HIV test counseling. Socio-demographic characteristics and history of STDs, risk behaviors and previous HIV testing were assessed. Descriptive statistics, correlations and multivariate logistic regression were calculated Results: Mean age 33,5±10,2; 66%women.Frequency of HIV-positive patients was 3.86% (95% CI: 1.87-5.85), greater in men (7.38%; p=0,013). Greater frequency of HIV-positive patients was observed in people age 29-37, those without a stable partner, and those with history of risky alcohol consumption (more than five drinks in 2 hours) . Conclusions: HIV-positive patients frequency in this population was greater than national estimate for general population, aged 15-49 in Colombia, with even greater frequency in men. This study suggests that characteristics associated with low socioeconomic status, in economically active population, without a stable partner and with risky alcohol use, can potentially increase risk of HIV infection [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapies and factors associated with HIV/AIDS control in a population of patients treated by the Colombian Social Security Health System (SGSSS). Methods. This was a descriptive study of 510 HIV/AIDS patients treated with antiretroviral therapies in 19 cities in Colombia from June 1992--April 2011. Factors assessed from each patient's clinical history were: viral load, CD4 count, antiretroviral treatment regimens, prescribed daily doses of medications, length of disease evolution, duration of therapy, history of opportunistic diseases, and drug costs. Results. Patients were predominantly male (75.1% males versus 24.9% women), with a mean age of 41.0±11.4 years and an average length of disease progression of 72 months. All recommended treatment regimens were prescribed at the defined daily dose. Treatment was effective in 65.3% of patients (viral load < 50 copies per mL). Non-adherence to treatment, treatment failure, the presence of anxiety or depression, and treatment in the city of Barranquilla were associated with an increased risk of uncontrolled HIV infection. The mean annual cost of drugs per patient was US$ 2 736. Conclusions. Factors associated with uncontrolled HIV infection, especially regarding treatment adherence, must be identified to promote solutions for health care programs treating patients with HIV/AIDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Investigacion & Educacion en Enfermeria is the property of Universidad de Antioquia, Facultad de Enfermeria and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: to determine the prevalence of HIV among the street dwellers of the city of Medellin (Colombia) as well as their socio-demographic characteristics in order to deepen the understanding of the problems faced by this vulnerable group. Methodology: a cross-sectional study was conducted in which HIV seroprevalence and risk behaviors were determined. Data was processed using the SPSS 8.0 software, and the bivariate analysis was conducted using statistical methods. Results: a survey was conducted on 230 street dwellers, 69.6% of which were men. The average age was 38 ± 10.9 years, and HIV prevalence was 7.8%. This prevalence was 10% for men and 2.9% for women. The rate of infected individuals was 12% for those aged 25 to 34, 11% for individuals aged 55, and 8% for those aged 18 to 24. Additionally, 41% of men and 30% of women had correct beliefs regarding HIV transmission. Discussion: the prevalence value of 7.8%, shows that HIV infections in Colombia are concentrated in populations in a state of exclusion, stigma, and discrimination. This value also shows a need for actions targeting vulnerable groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Biomédica: Revista del Instituto Nacional de Salud is the property of Instituto Nacional de Salud of Colombia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: In Colombia, there are few studies that have evaluated the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of individuals infected with HIV/AIDS through MOSSF-36, WHOQOL-BREF or WHOQOL-HIV-BREF and no studies have been reported comparing some of its psychometric properties. Objective: To describe the HRQOL and to analyze the psychometric properties of two generic and one specific instruments to measure HRQOL in a group of people living with HIV/AIDS in Medellin, Colombia, 2009. Methodology: Cross-sectional study in a nonrandom sample of 187 subjects with HIV/AIDS. The MOSSF-36, WHOQOL-BREF, and WHOQOL-HIV-BREF were applied. The description was made with proportions and summary measures; reliability was assessed with Cronbach's alpha, Pearson's correlation coefficients were used for internal consistency and discriminant validity, and the convergent/ divergent validity of the concepts of HRQOL with the correlation among the domains of the instruments. Results: Higher HRQOL scores were observed in Physical Function, Environment, Level of Independence and Spirituality. The MOSS-36 showed an excellent level of reliability, internal consistency and discriminant validity in its eight domains; the WHOQOL-BREF presented excellent psychometric properties in Physical Health, Environment and Social Relations, and good properties in Psychological Health; whereas, the WHOQOL-HIV-BREF had excellent psychometric properties in Social Relations, Environment, Spirituality and Independence and good properties in Physical and Psychological Health. There were correlations above 0.4 among domains of different instruments, which show the convergence of the measurement of HRQOL with the instruments applied. Conclusion: The MOSSF-36 showed a perfect profile of psychometric characteristics, the WHOQOL-BREF and WHOQOL-HIV-BREF were an acceptable level and the constructs of the three instruments converge, indicating good development of tools for studying HRQOL in HIV/AIDS infected individuals in Colombia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Universitas Médica is the property of Pontificia Universidad Javeriana and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study will illustrate the relationship between social inequality, HIV/AIDS and armed conflict in Colombia 2002 - 2008. Methods: The study variables were determined according to the Risk Index of Humanitarian Situation. The data provided were crossed and studied by means of bivariate analysis. Results: The analysis of the results showed two trends. A group of departments with higher than the national average Human Development Index (HDI), which showed high rates of armed violence and incidence of HIV/AIDS. Another group, with low HDI, high rates of armed violence, but low rates of incidence of HIV/AIDS. Conclusions: In the case of Colombia a relationship has shown between armed conflict, social inequality and HIV/AIDS. Although there is a causal link is fully identifiable for populations where the armed conflict has affected the implementation of the health surveillance services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to identify the level of knowledge about HIV/AIDS in Colombia veterans of war in the year 2009, a questionnaire was designed, built and validated, using a mixed design, for which three stages were followed: 1) Bibliographic review and construction of items of the questionnaire using a focus group, 2) Evaluation of content validity by a pannel of experts, 3) APLICACION of the final questionnaire, we selected non-randomly 323 people who were part of group of veterans in Colombia, and 4) Validation of the questionnaire through the evaluation of internal consistency and principal component analysis. We found that the questionnaire explored three factors: forms of infection, inadequate beliefs, and HIV prevention, which accounted for 52% of the variance. The survey showed adequate internal consistency values (Cronbach's a = 0.77). These results suggest the use of the questionnaire to assess knowledge level related to the form of infection, inaccurate beliefs and prevention of HIV-AIDS in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To obtain a thorough understanding of the complexity and dynamics of the social determination of HIV infection among inhabitants of Cartagena, Colombia, as well as their views on necessary actions and priorities. Methods. In a five-year ethnography of HIV/AIDS in collaboration with 96 citizens of Cartagena, different methods and data collection techniques were used. Through 40 in-depth interviews and 30 life histories of inhabitants, the scenario of HIV vulnerability was summarized in a diagram. This diagram was evaluated and complemented through group discussions with key representatives of local governmental and nongovernmental organizations and with people who were interested in the epidemic or affected by it. Results. The diagram illustrates the dynamic and complex interrelationships among structural factors (i.e., social determinants) of HIV infection, such as machismo; lack of work, money, and social services; local dynamics of the performance of the state; and international dynamics of the sexual tourism industry. On the basis of the diagram, groups of key representatives proposed prioritizing structural actions such as reducing socioeconomic inequalities and providing access to health care and education. Conclusions. The social determinants displayed in the diagram relate to historic power forces that have shaped vulnerable scenarios in Cartagena. Collaboration between participants and researchers generates conceptual frameworks that make it possible to understand and manage the complexity of HIV's social determination. This way of understanding effectively connects local inequalities with international flows of power such as sexual tourism and makes evident the strengths and limitations of current approaches to HIV prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the association between the prevalence of HIV/AIDS, according to self-report for the period 2000-2005 and some structural determinants in the municipalities of the department of Valle del Cauca, Colombia. An observational, descriptive and ecological study was conducted. The data were taken from the Census of Population (2005) conducted by the National Administrative Statistics Department (DANE). Variables related to social structural determinants were the quality of housing, sanitary infrastructure, the minimum level of human capital and access to health care services. Evidence statistically significant (p=1%, p=5%) of the association between these determinants and the prevalence of HIV in nine of 21 municipalities studied was found. The structural determination of HIV/AIDS deserves additional analysis that should be conducted from the perspective of economic and social rights of people affected by the virus, all in guaranteeing the right to health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Biomédica: Revista del Instituto Nacional de Salud is the property of Instituto Nacional de Salud of Colombia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective. To identify and analyze HIV/AIDS treatment adherence among Colombian women. Material and Methods. A qualitative, descriptive-interpretative study with content analysis was developed between 2008 and 2009. Sixty six women participated in five focus group discussions. To complement data, semi-structured interviews with seven key informants were conducted. Results. Main barriers are determined structurally by the current Colombian health system, based on insurance market. The right to access to treatment in a timely and continuous manner, the rights to confidentiality and non discrimination, and the right to quality care with gender focus are affected among participant women. Consequently, adherence is negatively affected. Conclusions. The current Colombian health system determines critical processes affecting HIV/AIDS treatment adherence in women. However, further research must be conducted to identify specific associations with non-universal health systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antecedents: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus is currently considered a chronic disease; hence, quality of life is an important goal for those suffering the disease or living with someone afflicted by the virus. Objectives: We sought to measure the quality of life in individuals living with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome virus and establish its relationship with socio-demographic and clinical variables. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, descriptive study with a sample of 137 HIV-infected individuals attending three healthcare institutions in the city of Cali, Colombia. Quality of life was measured via the HIV/AIDS-Targeted Quality of Life (HAT-QoL) instrument. The descriptive analyses included mean and standard deviation calculations. To determine the candidate variables, we used the student t test and the Pearson correlation. The response variable in the multiple linear regression was the score for quality of life. Results: Some 27% of the sample were women and 3% were transgender; the mean age of the sample was 35 ± 10.2 years; 88% had some type of health insurance; 27% had been diagnosed with AIDS, and 64% were taking antiretroviral medications at the time of the study. Quality of life was measured through a standard scale with scores from 0 to 100. Participants' global quality of life mean was 59 ± 17.8. The quality-of-life dimensions with the highest scores were sexual function, satisfaction with the healthcare provider, and satisfaction with life. The highest quality-of-life scores were obtained by participants who received antiretroviral therapy, had health insurance, lower symptoms of depression, low frequency and intensity of symptoms, and no prior reports of sexual abuse. Eight variables explained 53% of the variability of the global quality of life. Conclusions: Those receiving antiretroviral therapy and who report fewer symptoms best perceived their quality of life. Implications for practice: Healthcare providers, especially nursing professional face a challenge in caring to alleviate symptoms and contribute to improving the quality of life of their patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To assess and analyze the associations between adherence to treatment and social position in women living with HIV/AIDS. Method. A cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational study among 269 Colombian women was conducted. Participants completed three questionnaires: a socio-demographic and clinical characteristics survey, a treatment adherence scale, and a social position survey. Results. Women of low social position had a significantly higher probability of low treatment adherence (OR = 5.651, P < 0.0001), and the majority of social position variables measured had a significant effect on adherence. A general model considering the variables "type of national health care plan" ("contributive," "subsidized," or, in the case of vinculadas or the uninsured, "none"); "having HIV-positive children"; and "level of viral load" was statistically reliable in predicting study participants' treatment adherence. Membership in the subsidized plan or being uninsured had a greater effect on the probability of low adherence than membership in the contributive plan (OR = 3.478, P < 0.0001). Univariate regression analyses confirmed that women with HIV-positive children and a viral load = 400 copies/ml were more likely to have low adherence than women without those characteristics (OR = 2.395, P = 0.0274 and OR = 2.178, P = 0.0050, respectively). Conclusions. Improving women's adherence to HIV/AIDS treatment in Colombia would require eliminating barriers to national health care system and comprehensive health care services and implementing programs that take into account women's role as maternal caregivers The findings underscore the need to integrate variables related to gender inequality and social position in treatment adherence analysis, as advocated in the social determinants of health approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies the public policies and components of the healthcare system affecting Colombian women with HIV/AIDS. Although there is national interest in controlling the HIV/ AIDS epidemic, current policies are not linked to specific lines of action and do not include a coherent gender approach that can guarantee comprehensive healthcare. HIV/AIDS policies are formulated within the frame of current economic policies and health reform implemented as part of Law 100 of 1993. These policies must be supported by economic plans that make it possible for the most vulnerable population to overcome the conditions of social inequity and by a healthcare system which guarantees complete access to appropriate healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Salud Uninorte is the property of Fundacion Universidad del Norte and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objectives. To apply decision analysis to compare the cost-effectiveness of three strategies for HIV screening of pregnant women and to recommend the one most appropriate for the health care system of Colombia. Methods. An economic study applying decision analysis to three types of HIV screening of expectant women: voluntary, universal, and optional. All the women in Colombia with unknown HIV status who were admitted for child birth were included. The study included all the direct medical costs incurred from the time of testing through the first year following delivery, according to the General System for Healthcare Social Security. Cost-effectiveness ratio and the savings of each of the strategies were compared. Results. For every 10 000 women, the universal strategy detected five cases more than the voluntary strategy and seven cases more than the optional. The universal strategy carried a cost of approximately US$ 17 for each HIV-positive newborn; that is, less than half of that of the voluntary strategy (US$ 38) and less than the optional (US$ 24). According to the bifactorial analysis, the universal screening strategy was less costly than the voluntary and more effective than both of the others, regardless of prevalence, the false-positive rate of each method, and the rate of maternal compliance with screening. Conclusions. The screening strategy currently in use in Colombia is more costly (in both the medium- and long-term), less effective, and less capable of prevention, than the universal screening strategy. The recommendation to the national health authorities of Colombia is to begin screening all pregnant women for HIV infection using third-generation testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although there has been increasing number of prevention programs in the city of Cartagena, the incidence of HIV has grown dramatically. Within this social context the purpose of this study is focused on the understanding of how a sociocultural context influences the notion of risk of HIV contagion. Also, taking into account the promotion of condoms as the most effective measure to prevent the infection, we discuss the sociocultural relevance of official public health policies such as safe sex, risk factors and behavioral change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Colombia is facing a rising epidemic of intravenous heroin use. Knowledge of the methadone-assisted treatment programs in the country is crucial in order to propose improvement strategies., Methods: 13 programmes from priority regions were surveyed. The demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients attending the programs, a description of the services offered, their methadone treatment protocols, the various barriers to treatment and the causes of treatment abandonment were reviewed., Results: 12/13 questionnaires were analysed with a total of 538 active patients. Most of the patients attending these programs were men (85.5%) between 18 and 34 years-old (70%). Forty percent (40%) were intravenous drug users and 25% admitted sharing needles. The comorbidities associated with heroin use were mental illness (48%), hepatitis C (8.7%) and HIV (2%). Psychiatric comorbidity was more likely in patients attending the private sector (69.8% vs 29.7%; p<0.03). The initial average dose of methadone administered was 25.3±8.9mg/day, with a maintenance dose ranging from 41 to 80mg/day. Lack of alignment with primary care was perceived to be the most serious barrier to access, ahead of problems with insurance and prejudice towards treatment with methadone (p<0.05). Health Administration and insurance problems (p<0.003), together with the lack of availability of methadone (p<0.018) and relapse (p<0.014) were the most important reasons for abandonment of treatment., Conclusions: The treatment protocols of these programmes offer different levels of development and implementation. Some of the barriers to access and reasons for abandonment of treatment with methadone can be mitigated with better health administration., (Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U.)