This article reports results from a survey among women at risk for contracting Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) as well as transmitting it in a vertical (to offspring) and horizontal (sexual partner or intravenous [IV] drug usage) mode. Little is known about the extent of HIV knowledge, sexual behaviors, and IV drug usage for women at risk for HIV infection. The sample consisted of Black, Caucasian, Hispanic, and Haitian adult non-pregnant women from South Florida. The women had an adequate knowledge base about HIV and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome(AIDS), however the results indicated that the sample was at risk due to the following risk factors: (1) unprotected sexual intercourse, both vaginal and anal, with men who were at high risk for HIV infection; (2) IV drug usage by the women themselves, including needle sharing in "shooting galleries"; (3) the practice of prostitution by the women; and (4) the use of various non-IV drugs that have been shown to impair judgement and lower inhibitions regarding sexual practices. Results indicated differences in risk behaviors and knowledge about AIDS by race/ethnicity. (27 references) (LLL)