UCLA CFAR CORES

The Women & Family Project

One of the most recent studies to strengthen the behavioral science research at UCLA is the Women and Family Project, the only NIMH-funded study of women from five ethnic groups. This study includes 250 African-American, white, and Latina women, and 30 Asian and Native American women living with HIV, 150 of their male or female partners, and a demographically comparable group of the same number of HIV-negative women representing the same ethnic groups with their male or female partners.

Similar to the MACS, this is a longitudinal study of a diverse array of psychosocial issues (e.g. stress, sexuality, relationships, mental health) that affect women with the disease. The immunologic and clinical aspects of HIV/AIDS are also being monitored every six months, with face to face interviews and physical exams. However, distinct from the MACS and most longitudinal or cross-sectional studies of AIDS, women in this project range in education, income, relationship status and source of infection. Unlike the other studies in this project, women also range in their prior and current use of AIDS related agencies, HIV treatment, and care.

This longitudinal study has also helped to generate a new level of interest at UCLA and the surrounding community to assess the needs of ethnically diverse women and to provide HIV-related services specifically for them. The study also inspired a documentary video, entitled Women and HIV: Four Stories. This film personalizes the challenges of living with HIV by following four women through their daily experiences with the medical system, relationships, and identity. Data from the Women and Family Project will be used to develop prevention and intervention programs that will address some of the historical, social and cultural barriers to health and HIV specific care that women have commonly experienced. Additional information on the program can be obtained by calling 310.794.9929.