[Brasilia Center for Testing and Counseling (CTA-DF): analysis of its capacity to fulfill the vulnerable demand in the Federal District]

Due to the expansion of HIV-Aids epidemic in Brazil therapeutic advancements have occurred resulting in the increase of survival period and improvement in the quality of life of serum positive individuals; as well as changes in the epidemiologic profile of infected individuals and clear displacements of infection cases to the hinterland of Brazil and poorest sectors of society. The purpose of this study was to examine the CTA-DF capacity in assisting the most vulnerable population and high risk for HIV infection. A cross study was carried out with 5.496 users of the CTA–DF during the period of 1999-2000. Socio-demographic data disclosure material use of condoms types of expositions serological status and number of partners were analyzed. The statistical tests used were Square Qui and Kolmogorov-Smirnov. The results showed that the users of the poorest areas were the ones who less visited the CTA in the year of 2000 with significant difference. The disclosure of information about HIV-Aids infection was broader in the year a 1999 than in 2000. As to the use of condom in the year 2000 there was a decrease in the number of people who “always used” them and as increase in the number of those who “never” used this preventive method. No statistical difference was found when comparing the following variables: sex type of exposition education and income level. In the year of 2000 there was a decrease in persons with only one partner when compared to 1999. It was verified the need for a better disclosure of the CTA-DF particulary among women adolescents young women and an increase in the scope of serological testing and counseling to needy areas of the Federal District. (authors)