Risk behavior for the human immunodeficiency virus among motel clients

This study aimed to verify risk behavior for infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus in people who attended motels. This is a cross-sectional study conducted in two motels in two municipalities in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, with a sample of 308 randomly selected individuals, aged between 18 and 60 years. Bivariate (chi-square and t test for independent samples) and multivariate (logistic regression) statistical tests were performed. A total of 45.8% of the participants reported not having used a condom during the last vaginal sexual intercourse, 48.4% did not use a condom during the last oral sex, while 26.3% reported not having used a condom in the last anal intercourse. Having a steady partner was the strongest predictor of not using condoms. Probable beliefs regarding loyalty involved in a stable relationship may be contributing to the failure to use condoms during intercourse, increasing the risk of HIV infection.