Numerous studies indicate that African American and Latina women are concerned about HIV infection but may not use condoms. Trusting a male partner who is not monogamous is a serious risk factor for any woman and may put many young Latina and African American women at risk for HIV and other STDs. Since different populations define monogamy in different ways, safer sex should be practiced in all sexual relationships. Differing age and sexual experience may create a power imbalance that limits the ability of YWOC to negotiate safer sex. Many cultural barriers prevent YWOC from gaining the skills and knowledge they need to lessen their risk for HIV or other STDs.
Ethnic groups face different barriers posed by customs, religion, and history.
Among Native Americans , communication barriers complicate HIV prevention. 20 Statistics may underestimate the rate of HIV infection among Native Americans. Some HIV infected Native Americans may claim to be of another ethnicity to avoid shaming their communities. In one study, nearly 90 percent of Native Americans living with AIDS were listed as being of another ethnicity.20 Inaccurate reporting may lead to decreased funding for prevention efforts 22,23 and may also lead Native Americans to deny or underestimate their HIV risk. Many Native Americans do not realize the connection between HIV infection and substance abuse.