Understanding the spread of sexually transmitted infections such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), pose specific challenges not seen by other infectious agents. Transmission of sexually transmitted infections are embedded in the context of sexual relations between two people, non-random interactions which are deeply embedded in a social and behavioral context. Despite effective prevention and treatment options, the HIV epidemic continues to spread in many populations. The field of sexual network analysis has evolved across multiple scientific disciplines in an attempt to understand, explain, and tailor prevention strategies to those groups affected. We aim to provide a comprehensive review of global sexual network studies of HIV to date, summarize the most recent methodological approaches, and review how sexual networking has advanced knowledge of HIV. 

Mentor: Karen Saylors, PhD