Influences of religious affiliation on perceptions toward HIV/AIDS

Background: Although the incidence of HIV/AIDS has stabilized in the general population in the United States, the epidemic continues to grow at disproportionate rates among minority youth. Our study examined the influences of religious affiliation on perceptions toward HIV/AIDS. Objective: To explore factors that might affect how the public perceives the topic of HIV/AIDS. Methods: We developed a survey consisting of 55 multiple-choice questions about participants' religious affiliation and activity, demographics, medical knowledge, friends and family information, and real life scenarios. The anonymous survey was developed as a paper copy and also made available online. We used the Catalyst Tools Program from the University of Washington's library system. Data was analyzed using the statistical package JMP IN®. Results: By conducting this survey, factors underlying risk perception and risk behavior in demographic groups were identified to assist in building a knowledge base for shaping the future of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the United States. In addition, the information obtained in this survey may help future public health measures intended to curb the growth of the epidemic in at-risk populations.