| HIV infection has been one of the 10 leading causes of death since 1999 for individuals 18 to 44 years of age in Belize, Central America. The relationship among income, ethnicity, and sexual behavior is yet unknown. To address this knowledge gap, a cross-sectional, survey-based study (N = 384) investigated the relationships among income, ethnicity, and sexual behavior among individuals aged 18 to 44 years in Belize. Social ecological theory provided the theoretical foundation. Data analysis techniques included summary statistics, ANOVA, and multiple logistic regression. The results of the analyses support the hypothesis that income and ethnicity are associated with sexual behavior. Multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated that Mestizo ethnic group had lower odds (OR = 0.28, p = .01) than the Creole ethnic group for risky sexual behavior. In addition, those of middle income group had greater odds (OR = 3.24, p = .04) than those of lower income group of engaging in risky sexual behavior. Greater odds for risky sexual behavior were also demonstrated in (a) the age group 25--29.9 (OR = 6.59, p = .00) and over 30 (OR = 3.96, p = .03) compared to those who were under 20 (b) being single (OR = 2.93, p = .01) compared to those who were married or living with someone and (c) males (OR = 4.9, p = .00) compared to females. The Cayo (OR = 0.18, p = .03) and Toledo (OR = .16, p = .03) districts both had similar but lower odds compared to the Belize district for reporting risky sexual behavior. This study contributes to positive social change by providing important information regarding population characteristics related to HIV risk behavior for establishing effective community based intervention programs to help reduce risky sexual behavior and HIV infection in Belize, Central America. |
