HIV prevalence trends in selected populations in the United States: results from national serosurveillance, 1993-1997

Abstract

"Red Cross provide CDC with statistical data from routine HIV testing for surveillance purposes. The objectives of the serosurveillance system are (1) to provide federal, state, and local health officials and the general public with standardized estimates of HIV prevalence among selected populations, (2) to describe the magnitude and changes over time of HIV infection in these populations within regions and within selected demographic and behavioral subgroups, (3) to recognize new or emerging patterns of HIV infection among specific subgroups of the U.S. population, and (4) to assist in directing resources and in targeting programs for HIV prevention and care. From 1987 through 1999, CDC provided technical and financial assistance to state and local health departments to conduct anonymous unlinked HIV surveys in sentinel sites in selected metropolitan areas. The survey sites serve populations at high risk for HIV infection, such as those at sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinics and drug treatment centers (DTCs). Survey sites also included adolescent medicine clinics, which serve a population at lower risk. Investigators from state and local health departments chose clinics for participation in the surveys on the basis of client demographic and behavioral characteristics, local public health priorities, projected sample size, availability of voluntary counseling and testing, logistical considerations, and ability and willingness of the clinic staff to conduct surveys in accordance with national standardized protocols" - p. 1Also available via the World Wide Web.Includes bibliographical references (p. 48-51).Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. HIV Prevalence Trends in Selected Populations in the United States: Results from National Serosurveillance, 1993-1997. Atlanta: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; 2001:1-51