Order #: 15113

Authors:

Barker, A., Alvarra, M., Caughlan, J., Post, P.

Title:

Comorbid TB and HIV in a Chronically Homeless Male: Social Isolation Compounds Stress of Medical Confinement.

Source:

Homeless Health Care Case Report: Sharing Practice-Based Experience 1(2): 1-7, 2006. (Newsletter: 7 Pages)

Abstract:

Of all tuberculosis (TB) cases reported in the United States between 1994 and 2003, over 6 percent were among persons classified as homeless during the 12 months prior to diagnosis; 34 percent of TB-infected homeless persons tested nationwide had coinfection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).  In Maryland, the reported number of homeless persons with TB increased more than threefold between 2003 and 2004- from 4 cases (1.5 percent of all reported cases) to 15 cases (4.8 percent). During the same period, the overall incidence of TB in Baltimore increased from 4.9 cases to 5.6 cases per 100,000 population, while the national case rate decreased from 5.1 to 4.9 (authors). Available From: National Health Care for the Homeless Council, P.O. Box 60427, Nashville, TN 37206, (615) 226-2292, www.nhchc.org.

Order #: 15201

Authors:

Weiser, S.D., Dilworth, S.E., Neilands, T.B., Cohen, J., Bangsberg, D.R., Riley, E.D.

Title:

Gender-specific Correlates of Sex Trade among Homeless and Marginally Housed Individuals in San Francisco.

Source:

Journal of Urban Health 83(4): 736-740, 2006. (Journal Article: 4 Pages)

Abstract:

This article discusses sex exchange as a well-established risk factor for HIV infection. Little is known about how correlates of sex trade differ by biologic sex and whether length of homelessness is associated with sex trade. The authors conducted a cross-sectional study among a sample of 1,148 homeless and marginally housed individuals in San Francisco to assess correlates of exchanging sex for money or drugs. Key independent variables included length of homelessness; use of crack, heroin or methamphetamine; HIV status; and sexual orientation. Analyses were restricted by biologic sex. In total, 39% of women and 30% of men reported a lifetime history of sex exchange. Methamphetamine use and greater length of homelessness were positively associated with a history of sex trade among women, while heroin use, recent mental health treatment, and homosexual or bisexual orientation were significantly associated with sex trade for men. Crack use was correlated with sex trade for both genders. Correlates of sex trade differ significantly according to biologic sex, and these differences should be considered in the design of effective HIV prevention programs. The study's findings highlight the critical need to develop long-term services to improve housing status for homeless women, mental health services for homeless men, and drug treatment services for homeless adults involved in sex work (authors).