Persistence of high risk sexual activity among homosexual men in an area of low incidence for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

A survey of 305 homosexual men was performed in an area of relatively low incidence for AIDS and low seroprevalence for antibody to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The objective of the study was to investigate current knowledge and practice of sexual behavior designed to limit transmission of HIV. The results showed that while the majority of the study group believed that they had made changes in their life styles that would reduce the likelihood of transmitting or acquiring the virus, nearly half admitted to persistently engaging in active and passive anal intercourse without condoms. These data suggest the need for more widespread and effective forms of education to help prevent the continuing spread of the AIDS epidemic.