Sexual behavior and spread of AIDS in Mexico

Initial data on acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in Mexico is presented and large scale campaigns seek to inform Mexican people about AIDS and prevention and results from informal interviews suggest a desire for knowledge aboutAIDS and safe sex exists in Mexico.

Abstract

This paper presents some initial data on acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in Mexico and relates it to high-risk sexual behavior. As of June 1988 a cumulative total of about 1500 AIDS cases had been confirmed by the Mexican Health Ministry. The highest risk group constituting 90% of the 74 cases studied in Mexico City consists of bisexual or homosexual males actively involved in intercourse. Recipients of blood donations and female sexual partners of bisexual and homosexual males are also considered high risk in Mexico. Unprotected anal intercourse is the most favored sexual practice of homosexually involved Mexican males as well as the highest risk sexual practice for the transmission of HIV. Preliminary data from a Guadalajara study indicate that 46.3% of the men engaging in receptive anal intercourse tested seropositive for HIV as compared to 20.6% seropositive insertive anal intercourse types. Having multiple sex partners is another sexual practice identified as high risk and is also common among Mexican men. Data from Mexico City revealed that individuals with more than 100 sexual contacts have more than 4 times the probability of being infected by the virus. Seropositive findings are also reported for urban areas of the US and Northern Europe. The limited Mexican homosexual subculture is contrasted with the overt gay world of the US and the influence of family attitudes and behavior toward homosexuality is discussed. Since most bisexual and homosexual males live with their families a national government program aided at educating families about safe sex may be the most effective way to induce change in Mexican male behavior. Female prostitution is common in Mexico and condoms are infrequently used. The gay liberation movement in Mexico and its role in educating people about AIDS is reviewed in addition to male attitudes and behavior towards AIDS. Results from informal interviews suggest a desire for knowledge about AIDS and safe sex exists in Mexico. The outlook is hopeful large scale campaigns seek to inform Mexican people about AIDS and prevention.