Changes in the socio-demographics, risk behaviors, clinical and immunological profile of a cohort of the Puerto Rican population living with HIV: an update of the Retrovirus Research Center (1992-2008)

Bol Asoc Med P R. 2010 Jul-Sep;102(3):45-51.

Abstract

Objectives: We describe the changes in the socio demographic, risk behavior, immunological and clinical trends profiles of a cohort HIV patients followed at the Retrovirus Research Center, at baseline and study periods interval by periods intervals: 1992-1997, 1998-2003, and 2004-2008.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of a longitudinal cohort comprised of 4016 HIV/AIDS patients admitted to the RRC since January 1992. Data collected include socio-demographic variables; risk related variables; psychological variables; and clinical variable by periods of study. RESULTS. The most common AIDS defining conditions observed in patients were: Pneumocistis Cariini pneumonia (PCP), toxoplasmosis of brain (TP), and wasting syndrome (WS). Chronic conditions are more prevalent than AIDS-defining conditions in the cohort of patients.

Conclusions: Understanding the socio demographic, HIV risk behavior profile; and the immunological and clinical trends among HIV patients is critical for redesigning services and programs oriented in HIV patient care.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cohort Studies
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Demography
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / epidemiology*
  • HIV Infections / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Puerto Rico / epidemiology
  • Risk-Taking*
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Time Factors