AIDSQuest: The HIV/AIDS Survey Library
Survey Summaries

Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, UCSF—National AIDS Behavior Survey

Overview
The National AIDS Behavior Survey (NABS) was developed by the Center for AIDS Prevention Studies (CAPS) at the University of California, San Francisco. The purpose of the NABS was to estimate the prevalence of HIV risk factors within the general heterosexual population in the United States, across social strata defined by age, gender, race or ethnicity, social class, and marital status. Psychosocial correlates of HIV risk behaviors and preventative actions were then examined. Approximately 14,000 US adults ages 18–75 years were surveyed within a six-month period in 1990–91. Data were collected by telephone, using random-digit dialing. Questions addressed demographic characteristics, sexual orientation, sex partners, communication with partners, condom use, and HIV risk and testing.

Methodology/validity
During the development of the NABS, six focus groups were conducted to examine perceptions of the survey procedures and comprehension of the survey questions. The NABS has been used in many studies with different populations such as Latinos, urban gay men, and the elderly. During this process, it has undergone translation into Spanish. For further information, please see the CAPS Web site at www.caps.ucsf.edu.

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For additional information please contact: 
Horizons 
Population Council 
4301 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 280 
Washington, DC 20008
Telephone: +1 202 237 9400 
Facsimile: +1 202 237 8410 
E-mail: horizons@popcouncil.org 

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This page updated 21 August 2006

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