HIV/AIDS risks as a consequence of schizophrenia

Given both the rapid rise in the prevalence of HIV infection among adolescent and adult males (0.6%) and females (0.1%) in the United States from 1984 to 1992 and the associations among HIV, injection drug abuse, homosexuality, and sexual promiscuity, it is important to determine whether individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia are at a higher than average risk of HIV infection. Stereotypes from the recent past about sexuality in both male and female patients were examined as an integral part of a literature review. Data from a dozen or so studies conducted since 1990 confirm and strengthen the impressions that persons with schizophrenia should be considered a group with a much higher than average risk for developing HIV/AIDS and that they have special needs for protection as a public health measure. Mental health service providers need to be aware of these findings.