Factors associated with the decision to obtain an HIV test among Chinese/Chinese American community college women in Northern California

  • Sang Leng Trieu Loma Linda University & Ohlone College
  • Naomi N. Modeste Loma Linda University
  • Helen Hopp Marshak Loma Linda University
  • Michael A. Males Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice
  • Sally I. Bratton Ohlone College

Abstract

HIV testing and counseling is the cornerstone of a comprehensive approach to HIV prevention and education. This article examines reasons for and barriers to obtaining an HIV test among 230 Chinese/Chinese American college students. Using Health Belief Model constructs, a cross-sectional study was administered at four California community college campuses. The self-report survey results indicated that 30% of respondents have obtained HIV testing. The most common reasons for testing were “just to find out” (73%), “having had unprotected sexual intercourse” (63%), and “having had sex with a new partner” (57%). Among those who were never tested, low levels of perceived susceptibility (66%) and lack of knowledge on testing sites (36%) were the most common barriers. Multiple unconditional logistic regression analyses revealed age, ethnic identity, lack of condom use during last intercourse, lower perceived barriers, and higher self-efficacy as significant predictors of HIV testing history. Emphasizing these factors in HIV education campaigns will likely increase testing rates within this population.

Published
2008-09-01
How to Cite
Trieu, S. L., Modeste, N. N., Hopp Marshak, H., Males, M. A., & Bratton, S. I. (2008). Factors associated with the decision to obtain an HIV test among Chinese/Chinese American community college women in Northern California. Californian Journal of Health Promotion, 6(1), 111-127. https://doi.org/10.32398/cjhp.v6i1.1296