AIDS and Islam in America.

Abstract

Islam is the fastest growing religion in the United States. African Americans make up the largest part of the Muslim community in America, and they are also the individuals at greatest risk for contracting HIV. With the objective of understanding the impact of religious and cultural beliefs on HIV risk behaviors, this article reviews the literature on HIV and AIDS in Muslim communities in America. While no specific data exists regarding HIV seroprevalence or the risk factors for transmission of HIV in specifically American Muslim communities, the available information is presented describing American Muslims' attitudes and beliefs regarding HIV. Furthermore, in order to help clinicians improve the delivery of HIV preventive services to members of these communities, Islamic doctrine is described in relation to the three main risk factors for acquiring HIV: sexual activity, drug use and perinatal transmission. American Muslims make up a diverse population which have unique needs regarding prevention of HIV and AIDS. These needs must be more fully investigated and understood in order to minimize rates of HIV transmission in these rapidly growing communities.