HIV Prevalence and Associated Factors among Foreign Brides from Burma in Yunnan Province, China

BACKGROUND Many Burmese women have migrated to Yunnan Province and married local residents over the past few decades; however, limited information is available on their HIV prevalence and ability to cope with HIV. This study aims to assess the prevalence of HIV and knowledge related to AIDS, as well as to discover possible risk factors of HIV infection among foreign brides from Burma in Yunnan Province. METHODS A cross-sectional study was taken of all Burmese cross-border wives residing in Tengchong County using standardized questionnaires. HIV and syphilis testing was conducted at the same time. RESULTS Among 600 Burmese brides, the HIV prevalence was 2.17%. Those aged 21-30, those with higher education levels and those who had resided in China less than one year had higher infection rates. The AIDS awareness rate of 39.50% was very low in this population. Only 28.67% of participants had ever been involved in prevention services. The rate of condom use was low. Classification by age, education, occupation, prior HIV testing and prior use of HIV prevention services showed a statistically significant association with mean knowledge score (p < 0.05). Residing in China less than one year (OR = 3.86, 95% CI = 1.09-13.70) and having casual sex in the last year (OR = 10.49, 95% CI = 1.20-91.59) were risk factors for HIV infection. CONCLUSIONS Burmese brides in China are not only exposed to a high risk of HIV infection, but also seriously lack response capabilities. Educational interventions and control efforts are practical approaches that need to be strengthened among this population.