Effects of Acculturation on Knowledge of AIDS and HIV among Hispanics

Abstract

Knowledge about AIDS and HIV transmission was assessed in a representative sample of 460 San Francisco Hispanics to identify the relationship of acculturation to AIDS knowledge. A random-digit-dialing survey using a modified Mitofsky-Waksberg sampling technique was conducted ofHispanics residing in areas of San Francisco with 10% or more Hispanic population. Results indicated generally good knowledge of the true modes of transmission of HIV, but also many erroneous beliefs in "casual" modes of transmission (e.g., public toilets, mosquitoes, sneezes). Acculturation was strongly associated with knowledge, with the less acculturated generally having many more erroneous beliefs about "casual " transmission and being less aware that someone can be infected without looking ill. Acculturation differences persisted even after controlling for education. The data suggest the need for targeted campaigns about AIDS and HIV transmission for less acculturated Spanish-speaking Hispanics.