Implementation and Long-Term Outcomes of Two HIV Intervention Programs for Latinas

Abstract

Despite the disproportionate effect of HIV/AIDS on Latinas in the United States, only a few studies of HIV prevention programs have focused on this priority population. In the meantime, public health practitioners have needed to develop and implement programs that contribute to the reduction of HIV sexual risk among women in Latino communities. This article reports on a joint effort of a state health department, community advocates, and researchers to develop and test the effectiveness of two 12-week interventions, an Intensive HIV Prevention Program and a Women’s Health Program. The authors present the short-term and longer term outcomes of both programs, assess their strengths and weaknesses, and finally consider the broader implications of their findings for HIV prevention programs for Latinas nationwide.