HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections: Testing and Treatment Considerations for Refugees

Abstract

(from the chapter) This chapter will highlight key screening, testing, and management considerations relevant to refugee populations for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other major sexually transmitted infections. We will begin with a discussion of HIV. HIV infection among refugees is not insignificant. As of 2006, there were an estimated 14.3 million refugees and 24.5 million internally displaced persons globally. Of those refugees and internally displaced persons affected by conflict, disaster, or displacement, 1.8 million were living with HIV. The precise burden of disease among refugees in the United States is unknown due to limited epidemiological data. Many refugees emigrate from settings that have a reported HIV prevalence from 2 to 28 %, with up to 14 % arriving from countries with a prevalence of >5 % based on earlier estimates. In general, refugees may acquire several risk factors for HIV infection prior to resettlement, which are exacerbated by displacement. These risk factors include sexual violence, physical abuse requiring blood transfusions, drug use, exchange of sex for money for basic sustenance, and indirectly through depression or increased alcohol consumption. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)