Cultural Practices of Hispanics: Implications for the Prevention of AIDS

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Abstract
Specific cultural practices of Hispanics were assessed with regard to condom use as an AIDS prevention measure. The sample of 190 Hispanics, including 117 males and 73 females, were mostly young adults who had recently immigrated to the western part of the United States. Condom use was associated with the "one who buys the condoms, " who were mostly men, and machismo practices, such as protecting the woman by using condoms. Suggestions include directing prevention of AIDS messages to males, emphasizing the protection of women through the use of condoms. Religion was nota significant factor with regard to use of condoms even though over 85% of the subjects identified themselves as Catholic. Fate orientation with respect toAIDS also was not a significant factor. The extent adherence to traditional Hispanic cultural values was influenced by the degree of education and acculturation. It is suggested that both education and acculturation levels be assessed prior to the implementation of prevention programs.