The Impact of Acculturation on Utilization of HIV Prevention Services and Access to Care Among an At-Risk Hispanic Population

INTRODUCTION: HIV/AIDS disproportionately affects Hispanics in the United States, a diverse and heterogeneous population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship of acculturation with HIV and hepatitis C testing, and access to care among Hispanics at risk for HIV. METHODS: We recruited 600 Hispanics from STD clinics, community-based organizations, and needle exchange programs in Los Angeles County. RESULTS: Low levels of acculturation were significantly associated with having fewer HIV tests (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.24, 3.15), no hepatitis C tests (OR 2.61, 95% CI 1.77, 3.84), testing positive for HIV (OR 2.67, 95% CI 1.04, 6.83), and low levels of access to care (beta=0.06; p<.05). CONCLUSIONS: Low levels of acculturation are an important barrier to the use of HIV-related health care services. Our findings may inform the development of effective interventions that address the cultural and behavioral differences among Hispanic subgroups.