Prevalence of HIV infection and the correlates among homeless in Tehran,Iran

Objective:To determine the prevalence of HIV infection among homeless men and women and the related risk behaviors in Tehran,Iran.Methods:In 2007-2008,Tehran municipality stacked up 10657 homeless men and women for assessment of HIV and began collaboration with Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS(IRCHA)departments to conduct HIV infection prevalence surveys in homeless populations.The results were analyzed for associations with demographic information,family support,status of drug abuse and relation with family and friends.Results:Overall HIV prevalence was 1.7%(95%confidence interval 1.4-1.9).Factors independently associated with HIV infection included history of using drugs[AOR 8.15(4.86-13.67)].older age[AOR1.80(1.08-2.99)for 40-55 yr],occupation[AOR 1.64(1.19-2.24)for unemployed],and no relation with family[AOR 1.82(l.30-2.54)|.Conclusions:This study supports the idea that injection drug use is contributing to the increased spread of HIV among Iranian homeless.Harm reduction programs should be expanded,particularly among homeless injection drug users.