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Bailey J, Mann S, Wayal S, Hunter R, Free C, Abraham C, Murray E. Sexual health promotion for young people delivered via digital media: a scoping review. PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH 2015. [DOI: 10.3310/phr03130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundYoung people are at risk of poor sexual health and are, therefore, in need of comprehensive, effective sexual health education. Young people are confident and constant users of digital technology, such as the internet and mobile phones, and there are many innovative possibilities for sexual health education involving these technologies.ObjectivesTo summarise evidence on effectiveness, cost-effectiveness and mechanism of action of interactive digital interventions (IDIs) for sexual health; optimal practice for intervention development; contexts for successful implementation; research methods for digital intervention evaluation; and the future potential of sexual health promotion via digital media.DesignLiterature review of evidence on digital interventions for sexual health for young people, integrating the findings with the views of young people, parents and experts in digital media/sexual health. IDIs are defined as digital media programmes that provide health information and tailored decision support, behaviour-change support and/or emotional support. We focus on sexual well-being for young people aged 13–24 years in the UK.ResultsThere are many imaginative IDIs for sexual health promotion, but few interventions address issues that are important to young people, such as sexual pleasure and relationships. It is vital to collaborate with young people and to use Behaviour-Change Theory in designing interventions. We located 19 randomised controlled trials of IDIs for sexual health promotion for young people, finding a moderate effect on sexual health knowledge [standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.54, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.17 to 0.92], a small effect on confidence (self-efficacy) (SMD 0.11, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.20) and a positive effect on sexual behaviour (odds ratio 1.28, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.61), but no significant effects on safer sex intention or biological outcomes. One study suggests that IDIs may be as good as face-to-face interventions for sexual health knowledge and safer sex intention. There are no existing data on the cost-effectiveness of IDIs for sexual health promotion. The impact of an IDI will be determined by the proportion of the target population reached, intervention efficacy, adoption in a setting, how well it is delivered and maintenance/sustainability. All of these elements must be addressed for IDIs to be successful. More collaboration is needed to capitalise on the knowledge of users and stakeholders, the design and software skills of the commercial sector and the theoretical expertise and evaluation skills of academia.ConclusionsIDIs are effective for knowledge acquisition and sexual behaviour, and could usefully contribute to sexual health education in schools, in clinic settings and online; however, there are obstacles to overcome, such as access to information technology and ensuring the quality and safety of interventions.Future workMore evidence is needed on the best designs for interventions (e.g. choice of behaviour-change mechanisms and interactive features) and the best models of delivery (e.g. setting, modes of delivery, methods of facilitation and support for engagement) to improve sexual behaviour, biological outcomes and sexual well-being in a cost-effective way.FundingThe National Institute for Health Research Public Health Research programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Bailey
- e-Health unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sue Mann
- Camberwell Sexual Health Centre, King’s College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Sonali Wayal
- e-Health unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rachael Hunter
- PRIMENT Clinical Trials Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Caroline Free
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Elizabeth Murray
- e-Health unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
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Examining Delay Discounting of Condom-Protected Sex Among Men Who Have Sex with Men Using Crowdsourcing Technology. AIDS Behav 2015; 19:1655-65. [PMID: 26066395 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-015-1107-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Some men who have sex with men (MSM) have unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) in situations that put them at risk for HIV infection despite having the knowledge and skills to avoid these risks. The present study examined the potential role of delay discounting in sexual HIV risk behavior among MSM. Participants (n = 108) completed the Sexual Discounting Task and a questionnaire regarding UAI and other variables associated with HIV risk (e.g., age, socioeconomic status, substance use, psychiatric problems). MSM discounted the value of condom-protected anal intercourse in a manner that was orderly, hyperbolic, and sensitive to partner characteristics that likely influence realworld decisions about using condoms. Steeper discounting was associated with UAI, and other factors related to sexual HIV risk among MSM, including young age, socioeconomic disadvantage, substance use, sex under the influence of substances, and depression). Delay discounting is likely a critical, but underappreciated facet of HIV risk among MSM.
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Sun CJ, Reboussin B, Mann L, Garcia M, Rhodes SD. The HIV Risk Profiles of Latino Sexual Minorities and Transgender Persons Who Use Websites or Apps Designed for Social and Sexual Networking. HEALTH EDUCATION & BEHAVIOR 2015; 43:86-93. [PMID: 26272786 DOI: 10.1177/1090198115596735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The use of websites and GPS-based mobile applications ("apps") designed for social and sexual networking has been associated with increased HIV risk; however, little is known about Latino sexual minorities' and transgender persons' use of these websites and apps and the risk profiles of those who use them compared with those who do not. Data from 167 participants who completed the baseline survey of a community-level HIV prevention intervention, which harnesses the social networks of Latino sexual minorities and transgender persons, were analyzed. One quarter of participants (28.74%, n = 48) reported using websites or apps designed for social and sexual networking, and 119 (71.26%) reported not using websites or apps designed for social and sexual networking. Those who used websites or apps were younger and reported more male sex partners, a sexually transmitted disease diagnosis, and illicit drug use other than marijuana. HIV prevention interventions for those who use websites or apps should consider addressing these risks for HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lilli Mann
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Manuel Garcia
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
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Lelutiu-Weinberger C, Pachankis JE, Gamarel KE, Surace A, Golub SA, Parsons JT. Feasibility, Acceptability, and Preliminary Efficacy of a Live-Chat Social Media Intervention to Reduce HIV Risk Among Young Men Who Have Sex With Men. AIDS Behav 2015; 19:1214-27. [PMID: 25256808 PMCID: PMC4375068 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-014-0911-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Given the popularity of social media among young men who have sex with men (YMSM), and in light of YMSM's elevated and increasing HIV rates, we tested the feasibility, acceptability and preliminary efficacy of a live chat intervention delivered on Facebook in reducing condomless anal sex and substance use within a group of high risk YMSM in a pre-post design with no control group. Participants (N = 41; 18-29 years old) completed up to eight one-hour motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral skills-based online live chat intervention sessions, and reported on demographic, psychosocial, and behavioral characteristics at baseline and immediately post-intervention. Analyses indicated that participation in the intervention (n = 31) was associated with reductions of days of drug and alcohol use in the past month and instances of anal sex without a condom (including under the influence of substances), as well as increases in knowledge of HIV-related risks at 3-month follow-up. This pilot study argues for the potential of this social media-delivered intervention to reduce HIV risk among a most vulnerable group in the United States, in a manner that was highly acceptable to receive and feasible to execute. A future randomized controlled trial could generate an intervention blueprint for providers to support YMSM's wellbeing by reaching them regardless of their geographical location, at a low cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Lelutiu-Weinberger
- Department of Psychology, Hunter AIDS Research Team (HART), Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY), 695 Park Avenue, HN Room 1209, New York, NY 10065, USA, URL: http://cunyhart.org/
| | - John E. Pachankis
- Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Kristi E. Gamarel
- Department of Psychology, Hunter AIDS Research Team (HART), Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY), 695 Park Avenue, HN Room 1209, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Alpert Medical School of Brown University, 167 Point Street, Providence, RI 023093, USA
| | - Anthony Surace
- Department of Psychology, Hunter AIDS Research Team (HART), Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY), 695 Park Avenue, HN Room 1209, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Sarit A. Golub
- Department of Psychology, Hunter AIDS Research Team (HART), Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY), 695 Park Avenue, HN Room 1209, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Health Psychology and Basic and Applied Social Psychology Doctoral Programs, the Graduate Center, CUNY, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Jeffrey T. Parsons
- Department of Psychology, Hunter AIDS Research Team (HART), Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY), 695 Park Avenue, HN Room 1209, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Health Psychology and Basic and Applied Social Psychology Doctoral Programs, the Graduate Center, CUNY, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST), 142 West 36th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10018, USA
- CUNY School of Public Health at Hunter College, 2180 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10035, USA
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55
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Fisher M, Wayal S, Smith H, Llewellyn C, Alexander S, Ison C, Parry JV, Singleton G, Perry N, Richardson D. Home sampling for sexually transmitted infections and HIV in men who have sex with men: a prospective observational study. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0120810. [PMID: 25848769 PMCID: PMC4388635 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2014] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
To determine uptake of home sampling kit (HSK) for STI/HIV compared to clinic-based testing, whether the availability of HSK would increase STI testing rates amongst HIV infected MSM, and those attending a community-based HIV testing clinic compared to historical control. Prospective observational study in three facilities providing STI/HIV testing services in Brighton, UK was conducted. Adult MSM attending/contacting a GUM clinic requesting an STI screen (group 1), HIV infected MSM attending routine outpatient clinic (group 2), and MSM attending a community-based rapid HIV testing service (group 3) were eligible. Participants were required to have no symptomatology consistent with STI and known to be immune to hepatitis A and B (group 1). Eligible men were offered a HSK to obtain self-collected specimens as an alternative to routine testing. HSK uptake compared to conventional clinic-based STI/HIV testing in group 1, increase in STI testing rates due to availability of HSK compared to historical controls in group 2 and 3, and HSK return rates in all settings were calculated. Among the 128 eligible men in group 1, HSK acceptance was higher (62.5% (95% CI: 53.5–70.9)) compared to GUM clinic-based testing (37.5% (95% CI: 29.1–46.5)), (p = 0.0004). Two thirds of eligible MSM offered an HSK in all three groups accepted it, but HSK return rates varied (highest in group 1, 77.5%, lowest in group 3, 16%). HSK for HIV testing was acceptable to 81% of men in group 1. Compared to historical controls, availability of HSK increased the proportion of MSM testing for STIs in group 2 but not in group 3. HSK for STI/HIV offers an alternative to conventional clinic-based testing for MSM seeking STI screening. It significantly increases STI testing uptake in HIV infected MSM. HSK could be considered as an adjunct to clinic-based services to further improve STI/HIV testing in MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Fisher
- Department of Genitourinary/HIV Medicine, Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Sonali Wayal
- Division of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Smith
- Division of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, United Kingdom
| | - Carrie Llewellyn
- Division of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Alexander
- Public Health England, Sexually Transmitted Bacteria Reference Laboratory and Virus Reference Department, London, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine Ison
- Public Health England, Sexually Transmitted Bacteria Reference Laboratory and Virus Reference Department, London, United Kingdom
| | - John V Parry
- Public Health England, Sexually Transmitted Bacteria Reference Laboratory and Virus Reference Department, London, United Kingdom
| | - Garth Singleton
- Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Nicky Perry
- Department of Genitourinary/HIV Medicine, Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Richardson
- Department of Genitourinary/HIV Medicine, Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, United Kingdom
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Zhao Y, Zhang L, Zhang H, Xia D, Pan SW, Yue H, Lu H, Xing H, He X, Shao Y, Ruan Y. HIV testing and preventive services accessibility among men who have sex with men at high risk of HIV infection in Beijing, China. Medicine (Baltimore) 2015; 94:e534. [PMID: 25674755 PMCID: PMC4602732 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000000534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The HIV epidemic among men who have sex with men (MSM) has been increasing at an alarming rate in most areas of China in recent years. Many Chinese MSM still lack sufficient access to HIV prevention services, despite ongoing scale-up of comprehensive HIV testing and intervention services. The purpose of this study was to investigate utilization of HIV testing and prevention services, and related factors that influence the MSM people to access HIV test or other services to prevent HIV among MSM in Beijing, China.Three successive cross-sectional surveys of MSM were conducted in Beijing from September 2009 to January 2010, September 2010 to January 2011, and September 2011 to January 2012. Demographic and behavioral data were collected and analyzed. Blood samples were tested for HIV and syphilis. Three models were established to analyze factors associated with HIV testing and preventive services.Of the 1312 participants, prevalence of HIV and syphilis was 7.9% and 15.4%, respectively. Sixty-nine percent ever had an HIV test, 56.2%, 78.7%, and 46.1% received HIV test, free condom/lubricants, and sexually transmitted infection services in the past 12 months (P12M), respectively. MSM with larger social networks and who knew someone infected with HIV were more likely to receive HIV testing and preventive services; lower degrees of stigma and discriminatory attitudes toward HIV/AIDS were positively associated with having an HIV test, whereas unprotected anal intercourse in the past 6 months (P6M) was associated with less preventive services participation. The most reported barriers to HIV testing were fear of testing HIV positive (79.3%) and perceiving no risk for HIV (75.4%). Almost all participants felt that ensuring confidentiality would encourage more MSM to have an HIV test. The two main reasons for not seeking HIV test was not knowing where to go for a test (63.2%) and perceiving low risk of HIV infection (55.1%).Given a high prevalence of HIV, syphilis, and risky behaviors and a relatively low HIV testing rate among MSM in Beijing, more efforts are urgently needed to address barriers to HIV testing and improve accessibility of prevention services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuejuan Zhao
- From the Beijing Center for Disease Control and Prevention (YZ, LZ, DX, HY, HL, XH); State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China (HZ, HX, YS, YR); The School of Population and Public Health University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (SWP)
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Hogben M, Ford J, Becasen JS, Brown KF. A systematic review of sexual health interventions for adults: narrative evidence. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2014; 52:444-69. [PMID: 25406027 PMCID: PMC4578698 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2014.973100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Recent work has explored the intersection between sexual health (as construed by the World Health Organization and others) and public health domains of action in the United States of America. This article reports the narrative results of a systematic review of sexual health intervention effects on public health-relevant outcomes. To qualify, interventions had to be based on the principles (1) that sexual health is intrinsic to individuals and their overall health and (2) that relationships reflecting sexual health must be positive for all parties concerned. Outcomes were classed in domains: knowledge, attitudes, communication, health care use, sexual behavior, and adverse events. We summarized data from 58 studies (English language, adult populations, 1996-2011) by population (adults, parents, sexual minorities, vulnerable populations) across domains. Interventions were predominantly individual and small-group designs that addressed sexual behaviors (72%) and attitudes/norms (55%). They yielded positive effects in that 98% reported a positive finding in at least one domain; 50% also reported null effects. The most consistently positive effects on behaviors and adverse events were found for sexual minorities, vulnerable populations, and parental communication. Whether via direct action or through partnerships, incorporating principles from existing sexual health definitions in public health efforts may help improve sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Hogben
- a Division of STD Prevention , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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58
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Curtis BL. Social networking and online recruiting for HIV research: ethical challenges. J Empir Res Hum Res Ethics 2014; 9:58-70. [PMID: 24572084 DOI: 10.1525/jer.2014.9.1.58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Social networking sites and online advertising organizations provide HIV/AIDS researchers access to target populations, often reaching difficult-to-reach populations. However, this benefit to researchers raises many issues for the protections of prospective research participants. Traditional recruitment procedures have involved straightforward transactions between the researchers and prospective participants; online recruitment is a more complex and indirect form of communication involving many parties engaged in the collecting, aggregating, and storing of research participant data. Thus, increased access to online data has challenged the adequacy of current and established procedures for participants' protections, such as informed consent and privacy/confidentiality. Internet-based HIV/AIDS research recruitment and its ethical challenges are described, and research participant safeguards and best practices are outlined.
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59
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Nelson LE, Walker JJ, DuBois SN, Giwa S. Your blues ain't like mine: considering integrative antiracism in HIV prevention research with black men who have sex with men in Canada and the United States. Nurs Inq 2014; 21:270-282. [PMID: 24894761 DOI: 10.1111/nin.12055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Evidence-based interventions have been developed and used to prevent HIV infections among black men who have sex with men (MSM) in Canada and the United States; however, the degree to which interventions address racism and other interlocking oppressions that influence HIV vulnerability is not well known. We utilize integrative antiracism to guide a review of HIV prevention intervention studies with black MSM and to determine how racism and religious oppression are addressed in the current intervention evidence base. We searched CINAHL, PsychInfo, MEDLINE and the CDC compendium of evidence-based HIV prevention interventions and identified seventeen interventions. Three interventions targeted black MSM, yet only one intervention addressed racism, religious oppression, cultural assets and religious assets. Most interventions' samples included low numbers of black MSM. More research is needed on interventions that address racism and religious oppression on HIV vulnerability among black MSM. Future research should focus on explicating mechanisms by which multiple oppressions impact HIV vulnerability. We recommend the development and integration of social justice tools for nursing practice that aid in addressing the impacts of racism and other oppressions on HIV vulnerability of black MSM.
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60
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Schnall R, Travers J, Rojas M, Carballo-Diéguez A. eHealth interventions for HIV prevention in high-risk men who have sex with men: a systematic review. J Med Internet Res 2014; 16:e134. [PMID: 24862459 PMCID: PMC4051738 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.3393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Revised: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background While the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) incidence rate has remained steady in most groups, the overall incidence of HIV among men who have sex with men (MSM) has been steadily increasing in the United States. eHealth is a platform for health behavior change interventions and provides new opportunities for the delivery of HIV prevention messages. Objective The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the use of eHealth interventions for HIV prevention in high-risk MSM. Methods We systematically searched PubMed, OVID, ISI Web of Knowledge, Google Scholar, and Google for articles and grey literature reporting the original results of any studies related to HIV prevention in MSM and developed a standard data collection form to extract information on study characteristics and outcome data. Results In total, 13 articles met the inclusion criteria, of which five articles targeted HIV testing behaviors and eight focused on decreasing HIV risk behaviors. Interventions included Web-based education modules, text messaging (SMS, short message service), chat rooms, and social networking. The methodological quality of articles ranged from 49.4-94.6%. Wide variation in the interventions meant synthesis of the results using meta-analysis would not be appropriate. Conclusions This review shows evidence that eHealth for HIV prevention in high-risk MSM has the potential to be effective in the short term for reducing HIV risk behaviors and increasing testing rates. Given that many of these studies were short term and had other limitations, but showed strong preliminary evidence of improving outcomes, additional work needs to rigorously assess the use of eHealth strategies for HIV prevention in high-risk MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Schnall
- Columbia University, School of Nursing, New York, NY, United States.
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61
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Acceptability of smartphone application-based HIV prevention among young men who have sex with men. AIDS Behav 2014; 18:285-96. [PMID: 24292281 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-013-0671-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Young men who have sex with men (YMSM) are increasingly using mobile smartphone applications ("apps"), such as Grindr, to meet sex partners. A probability sample of 195 Grindr-using YMSM in Southern California were administered an anonymous online survey to assess patterns of and motivations for Grindr use in order to inform development and tailoring of smartphone-based HIV prevention for YMSM. The number one reason for using Grindr (29 %) was to meet "hook ups." Among those participants who used both Grindr and online dating sites, a statistically significantly greater percentage used online dating sites for "hook ups" (42 %) compared to Grindr (30 %). Seventy percent of YMSM expressed a willingness to participate in a smartphone app-based HIV prevention program. Development and testing of smartphone apps for HIV prevention delivery has the potential to engage YMSM in HIV prevention programming, which can be tailored based on use patterns and motivations for use.
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Fisher WA, Fisher JD, Shuper PA. Social Psychology and the Fight Against AIDS. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-800284-1.00003-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Grov C, Breslow AS, Newcomb ME, Rosenberger JG, Bauermeister JA. Gay and bisexual men's use of the Internet: research from the 1990s through 2013. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2014; 51:390-409. [PMID: 24754360 PMCID: PMC4154140 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2013.871626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
We document the historical and cultural shifts in how gay and bisexual men have used the Internet for sexuality between the 1990s and 2013-including shifting technology as well as research methods to study gay and bisexual men online. Gay and bisexual men have rapidly taken to using the Internet for sexual purposes: for health information seeking, finding sex partners, dating, cybersex, and pornography. Men have adapted to the ever-evolving technological advances that have been made in connecting users to the Internet-from logging on via dial-up modem on a desktop computer to geo-social-sexual networking via handheld devices. In kind, researchers have adapted to the Internet to study gay and bisexual men. Studies have carefully considered the ethics, feasibility, and acceptability of using the Internet to conduct research and interventions. Much of this work has been grounded in models of disease prevention, largely as a result of the ongoing HIV/AIDS epidemic. The need to reduce HIV in this population has been a driving force to develop innovative research and Internet-based intervention methodologies. The Internet, and specifically mobile technology, is an environment gay and bisexual men are using for sexual purposes. These innovative technologies represent powerful resources for researchers to study and provide outreach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Brooklyn College and the Graduate Center of CUNY, New York, NY. USA
- The Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST), New York, NY. USA
| | - Aaron S. Breslow
- The Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST), New York, NY. USA
| | - Michael E. Newcomb
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Joshua G. Rosenberger
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Jose A Bauermeister
- The Center for Sexuality & Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Young SD, Cumberland WG, Lee SJ, Jaganath D, Szekeres G, Coates T. Social networking technologies as an emerging tool for HIV prevention: a cluster randomized trial. Ann Intern Med 2013; 159:318-24. [PMID: 24026317 PMCID: PMC3879120 DOI: 10.7326/0003-4819-159-5-201309030-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social networking technologies are an emerging tool for HIV prevention. OBJECTIVE To determine whether social networking communities can increase HIV testing among African American and Latino men who have sex with men (MSM). DESIGN Randomized, controlled trial with concealed allocation. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01701206). SETTING Online. PATIENTS 112 MSM based in Los Angeles, more than 85% of whom were African American or Latino. INTERVENTION Sixteen peer leaders were randomly assigned to deliver information about HIV or general health to participants via Facebook groups over 12 weeks. After participants accepted a request to join the group, participation was voluntary. Group participation and engagement were monitored. Participants could request a free, home-based HIV testing kit and completed questionnaires at baseline and 12-week follow-up. MEASUREMENTS Participant acceptance of and engagement in the intervention and social network participation, rates of home-based HIV testing, and sexual risk behaviors. RESULTS Almost 95% of intervention participants and 73% of control participants voluntarily communicated using the social platform. Twenty-five of 57 intervention participants (44%) requested home-based HIV testing kits compared with 11 of 55 control participants (20%) (difference, 24 percentage points [95% CI, 8 to 41 percentage points]). Nine of the 25 intervention participants (36%) who requested the test took it and mailed it back compared with 2 of the 11 control participants (18%) who requested the test. Retention at study follow-up was more than 93%. LIMITATION Only 2 Facebook communities were included for each group. CONCLUSION Social networking communities are acceptable and effective tools to increase home-based HIV testing among at-risk populations. PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE National Institute of Mental Health.
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Justumus P, Colby D, Mai Doan Anh T, Balestre E, Becquet R, Orne-Gliemann J. Willingness to use the Internet to seek information on HIV prevention and care among men who have sex with men in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. PLoS One 2013; 8:e71471. [PMID: 23977048 PMCID: PMC3747213 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0071471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2013] [Accepted: 06/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Vietnam, men who have sex with men (MSM) are highly affected by HIV and need new targeted HIV prevention strategies. Objectives To assess the willingness to use the Internet to seek information on HIV prevention and care and associated factors among MSM in Ho Chi Minh City. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 2012. Participants were recruited using a convenience sampling method in venues most frequented by MSM and completed a self-administered questionnaire. Logistic regression models were performed to estimate factors associated with the willingness to use the Internet to seek information on HIV prevention and care. Results A total of 358 MSM were approached for the survey and 222 questionnaires (62.0%) were eligible for analyses. Overall, 76.1% of the respondents reported that they were willing to use the Internet to seek information on HIV prevention and care. A number of male partners in last year less than or equal to 3 (Adjusted Odds Ratio: 3.07, 95% Confidence interval: 1.40–6.73), a history of STI screening (4.10, 1.02–16.48) and HIV testing (3.23, 1.20–8.64) and having ever sought a male sexual partner through the Internet (3.56, 1.55–8.18) were significantly positively associated with the willingness to use the Internet to seek information on HIV prevention and care. Conclusion The MSM interviewed in Ho Chi Minh City reported a high willingness to use the Internet to seek information on HIV prevention and care. In a context where new media are increasingly considered as promising options for reaching this HIV risk group, further research should be conducted on developing and testing tailored online tools adapted to the needs of Vietnamese MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Justumus
- Harvard Medical School AIDS Initiative in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- University Bordeaux, ISPED, Centre Inserm U897- Epidémiologie-Biostatistique, Bordeaux, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, ISPED, Centre Inserm U897- Epidémiologie-Biostatistique, Bordeaux, France
| | - Donn Colby
- Harvard Medical School AIDS Initiative in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Thi Mai Doan Anh
- Harvard Medical School AIDS Initiative in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Eric Balestre
- University Bordeaux, ISPED, Centre Inserm U897- Epidémiologie-Biostatistique, Bordeaux, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, ISPED, Centre Inserm U897- Epidémiologie-Biostatistique, Bordeaux, France
| | - Renaud Becquet
- University Bordeaux, ISPED, Centre Inserm U897- Epidémiologie-Biostatistique, Bordeaux, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, ISPED, Centre Inserm U897- Epidémiologie-Biostatistique, Bordeaux, France
| | - Joanna Orne-Gliemann
- University Bordeaux, ISPED, Centre Inserm U897- Epidémiologie-Biostatistique, Bordeaux, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, ISPED, Centre Inserm U897- Epidémiologie-Biostatistique, Bordeaux, France
- * E-mail:
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Jones-Webb R, Smolenski D, Brady S, Wilkerson M, Rosser BRS. Drinking settings, alcohol consumption, and sexual risk behavior among gay men. Addict Behav 2013; 38:1824-30. [PMID: 23261495 PMCID: PMC3569002 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2012.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2012] [Revised: 11/14/2012] [Accepted: 11/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
We sought to 1) describe the settings or groups of settings where men who have sex with men (MSM) consume alcohol in 16 U.S. metropolitan statistical areas (MSA); and 2) investigate whether certain drinking settings or groups of settings are associated with higher levels of alcohol consumption, problem drinking, and sexual risk behavior. Latent class analysis was used to develop our measure of drinking settings. The final latent class model consisted of four distinct classes which captured the typical settings where MSM consumed alcohol: "home" "social," "bar/social," and "general" drinkers (i.e., drinks in all settings). Regression models showed that "general" drinkers were more likely than "social" drinkers to engage in frequent heavy drinking. Compared to 'social' drinkers, general drinkers were also more likely to engage in unprotected anal intercourse (UAIMP) and UAIMP with men met in bars and other venues (e.g., private parties, bath houses) while intoxicated. Assessment of drinking settings may be a means of identifying MSM who are at greater risk for frequent, heavy drinking and related sexual risk behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhonda Jones-Webb
- University of Minnesota, School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, United States.
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Zou H, Wu Z, Yu J, Li M, Ablimit M, Li F, Poundstone K. Internet-facilitated, voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) clinic-based HIV testing among men who have sex with men in China. PLoS One 2013; 8:e51919. [PMID: 23418417 PMCID: PMC3572127 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0051919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2012] [Accepted: 11/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the feasibility of using Internet outreach to encourage men who have sex with men (MSM) to get tested for HIV at voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) clinics in Beijing and Urumqi, China. Methods From June to August 2007, two volunteers contacted MSM using instant messaging, online chat rooms, mobile phone, and e-mail (active recruitment). Banners with study information were put at the front pages of three major Chinese gay websites (passive recruitment). Those contacted were offered a modest financial incentive to seek HIV testing at existing VCT clinics. Those who subsequently sought HIV testing services at VCT clinics and provided informed consent completed a questionnaire and a blood draw to test for HIV and syphilis. Results A total of 3,332 MSM were contacted and 429 attended VCT clinics. One out of every 4 men that were recruited through instant messaging actually went for HIV testing, while the recruitment yields for online gay chat rooms, mobile phone contact, and email were 1∶6, 1∶10, and 1∶140, respectively. The majority of participants (80%, 317/399) reported being motivated to seek HIV testing out of concern for their health, and only 3% (11/399) reported being motivated by the financial incentive. Active recruitment tend to recruit MSM who are younger (X2 = 11.400, P = 0.001), never tested for HIV (X2 = 4.281, P = 0.039), tested less often (X2 = 5.638, P = 0.018). Conclusion Internet outreach is a promising way to encourage MSM to seek HIV testing at existing VCT clinics. Active recruitment can target MSM who are younger, never tested for HIV and tested less often.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huachun Zou
- Division of Health Education and Behavioral Intervention, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
- Sexual Health Unit, School of Population Health, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Zunyou Wu
- Division of Health Education and Behavioral Intervention, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
- * E-mail:
| | - Jianping Yu
- Division of AIDS/STD, Xicheng District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Min Li
- Division of AIDS/STD, Xicheng District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Muhtar Ablimit
- Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Xingjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Urumqi, China
| | - Fan Li
- Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Xingjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Urumqi, China
| | - Katharine Poundstone
- Division of Health Education and Behavioral Intervention, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
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Kingdon MJ, Storholm ED, Halkitis PN, Jones DC, Moeller RW, Siconolfi D, Solomon TM. Targeting HIV prevention messaging to a new generation of gay, bisexual, and other young men who have sex with men. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2013; 18:325-342. [PMID: 23320963 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2012.727953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
HIV prevention messaging has been shown to reduce or delay high-risk sexual behaviors in young men who have sex with men (YMSM). Since the onset of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, a new generation of YMSM has come of age during an evolution in communication modalities. Because both these communication technologies and this new generation remain understudied, the authors investigated the manner in which YMSM interact with HIV prevention messaging. In particular, the authors examined 6 venues in which YMSM are exposed to, pay attention to, and access HIV prevention information: the Internet, bars/dance clubs, print media, clinics/doctors' offices, community centers/agencies, and educational classes. Data were drawn from a community-based sample of 481 racially and ethnically diverse YMSM from New York City. Significant differences in exposure to HIV prevention messaging venues emerged with respect to age, race/ethnicity, and sexual orientation. Attention paid to HIV prevention messages in various venues differed by age and sexual orientation. Across all venues, multivariate modeling indicated YMSM were more likely to access HIV messaging from the same venues at which they paid attention, with some variability explained by person characteristics (age and perceived family socioeconomic status). This suggests that the one-size-fits-all approach does not hold true, and both the venue and person characteristics must be considered when generating and disseminating HIV prevention messaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly J Kingdon
- The Center for Health, Identity, Behavior, and Prevention Studies, The Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York University, New York, NY, USA.
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Mathieu E, McGeechan K, Barratt A, Herbert R. Internet-based randomized controlled trials: a systematic review. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2012; 20:568-76. [PMID: 23065196 DOI: 10.1136/amiajnl-2012-001175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The internet is increasingly being used to conduct randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Knowledge of the types of interventions evaluated and the methodological quality of these trials could inform decisions about whether to conduct future trials using conventional methods, fully online or a mixture of the two. OBJECTIVE To identify and describe the scope of internet-based RCTs for human health condition interventions and evaluate their methodological quality. METHODS A systematic review of RCTs of any health intervention conducted fully or primarily on the internet was carried out. RESULTS 23 fully and 27 primarily internet-based RCTs were identified. The first was conducted in 2000. The majority of trials evaluated interventions that involved providing health information to participants, but a few evaluated self-administered interventions (eg, valerian, stretching). Methodological quality was variable and the methods were generally poorly reported. The risk of bias was low in only a small number of trials; most had substantial methodological shortcomings. Only one trial was identified as meeting all criteria for adequate methodological quality. A particular problem was high rates of loss to follow-up (fully online: mean 47%; primarily online: mean 36%). CONCLUSIONS It is theoretically possible but perhaps difficult to test the effectiveness of health interventions rigorously with RCTs conducted fully or primarily over the internet. The use of the internet to conduct trials is more suited to pragmatic rather than explanatory trials. The main limitation of these trials is that they typically experience high rates of loss to follow-up. Methodological standards now accepted for traditional RCTs needs to be evident for online RCTs as well, especially in reporting of their methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Mathieu
- Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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70
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Ma W, Raymond HF, Wilson EC, McFarland W, Lu H, Ding X, Lu R, Ma X, Xia D, Xu J, He X, Feng L, Fan S, Li X, Sun J, Jia Y, Shao Y, Ruan Y, Xiao Y. Participation of HIV prevention programs among men who have sex with men in two cities of China--a mixed method study. BMC Public Health 2012; 12:847. [PMID: 23039880 PMCID: PMC3570394 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-12-847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2012] [Accepted: 10/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although various HIV prevention programs targeting men who have sex with men (MSM) are operating in China, whether and how these programs are being utilized is unclear. This study explores participation of HIV prevention programs and influencing factors among MSM in two cities in China. Methods This is a mixed-method study conducted in Beijing and Chongqing. A qualitative study consisting of in-depth interviews with 54 MSM, 11 key informants, and 8 focus group discussions, a cross-sectional survey using respondent-driven sampling among 998 MSM were conducted in 2009 and 2010 respectively to elicit information on MSM’s perception and utilization of HIV prevention programs. Qualitative findings were integrated with quantitative multivariate factors to explain the quantitative findings. Results Fifty-six percent of MSM in Chongqing and 75.1% in Beijing ever participated in at least one type of HIV prevention program (P=0.001). Factors related to participation in HIV prevention programs included age, ethnicity, income, HIV risk perception, living with boyfriend, living in urban area, size of MSM social network, having talked about HIV status with partners, and knowing someone who is HIV positive. Reasons why MSM did not participate in HIV prevention programs included logistical concerns like limited time for participation and distance to services; program content and delivery issues such as perceived low quality services and distrust of providers; and, cultural issues like HIV-related stigma and low risk perception. Conclusions The study shows that there is much room for improvement in reaching MSM in China. HIV prevention programs targeting MSM in China may need to be more comprehensive and incorporate the cultural, logistic and HIV-related needs of the population in order to effectively reach and affect this population’s risk for HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ma
- Shandong University School of Public Health, Jinan, China
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71
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Ko NY, Koe S, Lee HC, Yen CF, Ko WC, Hsu ST. Online sex-seeking, substance use, and risky behaviors in Taiwan: results from the 2010 Asia Internet MSM Sex Survey. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2012; 41:1273-1282. [PMID: 22392516 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-012-9908-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2010] [Revised: 06/01/2011] [Accepted: 11/19/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
We conducted an online behavioral survey to estimate the prevalence of online sex-seeking and substance use behaviors and to compare risky behaviors among men using different venues to seek sex with men. A cross-sectional online survey, the Asia Internet MSM Sex Survey, was conducted online from January 1 to February 28, 2010. Of the 1,645 participants enrolled from Taiwan, 72.4% reported the Internet as the main way of seeking sexual partners, 73.9% had had sex with partners found online, and 16% had used recreational drugs in the previous 6 months. There was no evidence to suggest that men who looked for sex through the Internet were more likely to engage in unprotected anal intercourse with their casual partners than those using other gay venues. Having had online sex partners in the previous 6 months was significantly associated with being young [adjusted odd ratio (AOR) = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.95-0.99], having had no steady partners in the previous year (AOR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.15-0.39), having had more than five partners in the previous 6 months (AOR = 4.57, 95% CI: 2.95-7.11), having used recreational drugs in the previous 6 months (AOR = 2.24, 95% CI: 1.30-3.87), and having had an STI in the previous 6 months (AOR = 4.24, 95% CI: 1.59-11.30). In conclusion, because the Internet is a popular meeting place for MSM in Taiwan, effective and targeted prevention programs should be developed to minimize the HIV transmission risk in the Internet era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nai-Ying Ko
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University and Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
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72
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Burrell ER, Pines HA, Robbie E, Coleman L, Murphy RD, Hess KL, Anton P, Gorbach PM. Use of the location-based social networking application GRINDR as a recruitment tool in rectal microbicide development research. AIDS Behav 2012; 16:1816-20. [PMID: 22851153 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-012-0277-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Mobile phone social networking applications such as GRINDR are potential tools for recruitment of men who have sex with men (MSM) for HIV prevention research. Demographics and sexual risk behaviors of men recruited through GRINDR and through traditional media were compared. GRINDR participants were younger (mean age 31 vs. 42, p < 0.0001), more White identified (44 vs. 30 %, p < 0.01), and had more sex partners in the previous 14 days (1.88 vs. 1.10, p < 0.05) than other recruits. Email responses were less successful for enrollment than phone calls (5 vs. 50 %). This approach resulted in successful recruitment of younger and more educated, White identified MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Earl R Burrell
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California-Los Angeles, 650 Charles E. Young Drive South, 41-295 Center for Health Sciences, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1772, USA.
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73
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Klein H, Kaplan RL. Condom use attitudes and HIV risk among American MSM seeking partners for unprotected sex via the internet. INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC HEALTH JOURNAL 2012; 4:419-434. [PMID: 30147844 PMCID: PMC6107085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This chapter examines attitudes toward condom use in a national random sample of 332 MSM who use the Internet to seek men with whom they can engage in unprotected sex. Data collection was conducted via telephone interviews between January 2008 and May 2009. The following three research questions were addressed: 1) How do these men feel about using condoms, both ideologically and personally? 2) How do condom use attitudes relate to actual HIV risk behavior practices? 3) What factors underlie men's attitudes toward condom use? The findings indicated that men held weakly-positive attitudes toward condom use overall, but were noticeably more negative in their attitudes regarding the personal use of condoms. Condom use attitudes were related consistently and inversely to involvement in HIV risk practices. In both multivariate and structural equation analyses, men's condom-related attitudes were the single strongest factor associated with their involvement in risky sex. A number of factors were found to be correlated with more favorable attitudes toward condom use. These were: caring about potential sex partners' HIV serostatus, experiencing fewer drug-related problems, having a lower level of educational attainment, not preferring to have "wild" or "uninhibited" sex, higher self-esteem, being African American, and not perceiving great accuracy in the information that sex partners supply verbally about their HIV serostatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh Klein
- Kensington Research Institute, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Rachel L. Kaplan
- Mack Center on Mental Health and Social Conflict, School of Social Welfare, University of California–Berkeley, Berkeley, California, US
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Kasatpibal N, Viseskul N, Srikantha W, Fongkaew W, Surapagdee N, Grimes RM. Developing a web site for human immunodeficiency virus prevention in a middle income country: a pilot study from Thailand. CYBERPSYCHOLOGY BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL NETWORKING 2012; 15:560-3. [PMID: 23002987 DOI: 10.1089/cyber.2012.0101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The Internet has often been used to reach men who have sex with men (MSMs) in developed countries. However, its use has not been as widespread in middle income countries because of a perceived lack of access to the web by residents of these countries. However, over half of the Internet users in the world now live in middle income countries. This article describes the development of web-based human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention program that can serve as a model for middle income countries. Thai nursing faculty worked with MSMs to create and evaluate a Web site that provided HIV prevention messages directed toward MSMs. The steps for creating the site are described. Forty-one MSMs used the site and provided feedback to the site developers. The group was young (median=19 years), low income (median income was ∼170 US$ per month). The users demonstrated that they had access to the Internet and that they could utilize the site. They also reported moderate-to-high levels of satisfaction with site design, content, ease of use, information obtained, and benefits obtained from using the site. A previous article in the Thai language also showed that they reduced risk behaviors. They also made many useful suggestions for improving the content of the site. In conclusion, the study showed that the combination of nurses and MSMs from a middle income country could develop a usable HIV prevention Web site that instructed and changed behavior.
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75
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Ramanathan N, Swendeman D, Comulada WS, Estrin D, Rotheram-Borus MJ. Identifying preferences for mobile health applications for self-monitoring and self-management: focus group findings from HIV-positive persons and young mothers. Int J Med Inform 2012; 82:e38-46. [PMID: 22704234 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2012.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2011] [Revised: 04/20/2012] [Accepted: 05/09/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Self-management of risk behaviors is a cornerstone of future population health interventions. Using mobile phones for routine self-monitoring and feedback is a cost-efficient strategy for self-management and ecological momentary interventions (EMI). However, mobile health applications need to be designed to be highly attractive and acceptable to a broad range of user groups. To inform the design of an adaptable mobile health application we aimed to identify the dimensions and range of user preferences for application features by different user groups. METHODS Five focus group interviews were conducted: two (n=9; n=20) with people living with HIV (PLH) and three with young mothers (n=6; n=8; n=10). Thematic analyses were conducted on the focus group sessions' notes and transcripts. RESULTS Both groups considered customization of reminders and prompts as necessary, and goal setting, motivational messaging, problem solving, and feedback as attractive. For PLH, automated and location-based reminders for medication adherence and sharing data with healthcare providers were both acceptable and attractive features. Privacy protection and invasiveness were the primary concerns, particularly around location tracking, illegal drug use, and sexual partner information. Concerns were ameliorated by use scenario or purpose, monetary incentives, and password protection. Privacy was not a major concern to mothers who considered passwords burdensome. Mothers' preferences focused on customization that supports mood, exercise and eating patterns, and especially using the mobile phone camera to photograph food to increase self-accountability. CONCLUSIONS Individualization emerged as the key feature and design principle to reduce user burden and increase attractiveness and acceptability. Mobile phone EMI uniquely enables individualization, context-aware and real-time feedback, and tailored intervention delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nithya Ramanathan
- Center for Embedded Networked Sensing, Department of Computer Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, USA.
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76
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Grov C. HIV risk and substance use in men who have sex with men surveyed in bathhouses, bars/clubs, and on Craigslist.org: venue of recruitment matters. AIDS Behav 2012; 16:807-17. [PMID: 21748276 PMCID: PMC5826651 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-011-9999-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
There has been little evaluation regarding whether men who have sex with men (MSM) recruited in one type of venue differ in behavioral and demographic characteristics from those recruited in others. We surveyed MSM in gay bars/clubs (n = 199), bathhouses (n = 194), and off Craigslist.org (n = 208). Men in bathhouses reported the greatest average number of partners and were less likely to disclose their HIV status. Among men reporting anal sex; those on Craigslist reported the least condom use. Finally, men surveyed in gay bars/clubs were the youngest of the three and the most likely to be single; they also reported the highest levels of attachment to the gay community and the most frequent alcohol use. Our findings demonstrate the need to tailor HIV prevention efforts to the location in which they are targeted, and for researchers to evaluate if participants differ by recruitment source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College of the City University of New York, 11210, USA.
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Abstract
The rapidly changing media landscape and proliferation of new technologies creates vast new opportunities for HIV prevention. The fast growth of the relatively new eHealth field is a testament to the excitement and promise of these new technologies. eHealth interventions in HIV prevention tested to date include computer- and Internet-based interventions; chat room interventions; text messaging interventions; and social media. The current article provides a brief review of these types of interventions in HIV prevention, including their unique advantages and evidence of efficacy. Implications for future research in the eHealth HIV prevention field are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth M Noar
- School of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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Strategies to retain participants in a long-term HIV prevention randomized controlled trial: lessons from the MINTS-II study. AIDS Behav 2012; 16:469-79. [PMID: 21538084 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-011-9957-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Achieving satisfactory retention in online HIV prevention trials typically has proven difficult, particularly over extended timeframes. The overall aim of this study was to assess factors associated with retention in the Men's INTernet Study II (MINTS-II), a randomized controlled trial of a sexual risk reduction intervention for men who have sex with men. Participants were recruited via e-mails and banner advertisements in December, 2007 to participate in the MINTS-II Sexpulse intervention and followed over a 12-month period. Retention across the treatment and control arms was 85.2% at 12 months. Factors associated with higher retention included: randomization to the control arm, previous participation in a study by the research team, e-mail and telephone reminders to complete a survey once it was available online, and fewer e-mail contacts between surveys. The results provide evidence that achieving satisfactory retention is possible in online HIV prevention trials, and suggest best practices for maximizing retention.
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Jaganath D, Gill HK, Cohen AC, Young SD. Harnessing Online Peer Education (HOPE): integrating C-POL and social media to train peer leaders in HIV prevention. AIDS Care 2011; 24:593-600. [PMID: 22149081 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2011.630355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Novel methods, such as Internet-based interventions, are needed to combat the spread of HIV. While past initiatives have used the Internet to promote HIV prevention, the growing popularity, decreasing digital divide, and multi-functionality of social networking sites, such as Facebook, make this an ideal time to develop innovative ways to use online social networking sites to scale HIV prevention interventions among high-risk groups. The UCLA Harnessing Online Peer Education study is a longitudinal experimental study to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of using social media for peer-led HIV prevention, specifically among African American and Latino Men who have Sex with Men (MSM). No curriculum currently exists to train peer leaders in delivering culturally aware HIV prevention messages using social media. Training was created that adapted the Community Popular Opinion Leader (C-POL) model, for use on social networking sites. Peer leaders are recruited who represent the target population and have experience with both social media and community outreach. The curriculum contains the following elements: discussion and role playing exercises to integrate basic knowledge of HIV/AIDS, awareness of sociocultural HIV/AIDS issues in the age of technology, and communication methods for training peer leaders in effective, interactive social media-based HIV prevention. Ethical issues related to Facebook and health interventions are integrated throughout the sessions. Training outcomes have been developed for long-term assessment of retention and efficacy. This is the first C-POL curriculum that has been adapted for use on social networking websites. Although this curriculum has been used to target African-American and Latino MSM, it has been created to allow generalization to other high-risk groups.
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Zhang L, Qian HZ, Blevins ML, Yin L, Ruan Y, Vermund SH. Internet-based behavioral interventions for preventing HIV infection in men who have sex with men (MSM). Hippokratia 2011. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd009525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lan Zhang
- Vanderbilt University; Institute for Global Health; Nashville Tennessee USA 37203
| | - Han-zhu Qian
- Vanderbilt University; Institute for Global Health; Nashville Tennessee USA 37203
| | - Meridith L Blevins
- Vanderbilt University; Department of Biostatistics; Nashville Tennessee USA 37232
| | - Lu Yin
- Vanderbilt University; Institute for Global Health; Nashville Tennessee USA 37203
| | - Yuhua Ruan
- National Centre for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention (NCAIDS), China CDC; Beijing China 100050
| | - Sten H Vermund
- Vanderbilt University; Institute for Global Health; Nashville Tennessee USA 37203
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81
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Benotsch EG, Martin AM, Espil FM, Nettles CD, Seal DW, Pinkerton SD. Internet use, recreational travel, and HIV risk behaviors in men who have sex with men. J Community Health 2011; 36:398-405. [PMID: 20924778 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-010-9321-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have documented higher rates of HIV risk behavior in gay and bisexual men traveling for leisure. Most of these studies collected data in high-risk tourist areas known for promoting alcohol and other substance use. The present study sampled a broader range of men by collecting data at a Gay Pride celebration, and asking participants about vacation experiences over the past 12 months. We also collected information about men's use of the Internet to find sexual partners before they traveled. Overall, two-thirds of participants reported recreational travel in the previous year. Of these men, 17% reported having sex with a new partner during their most recent vacation. Forty-three percent of the respondents were sexually active during their vacation. Sexually-active participants reported a mean of 2.01 unprotected anal sex acts during their brief vacation stay (M = 6.2 days). Close to half of the sexually-active men reported having sex with a partner of unknown HIV status. Alcohol and drug use were associated with unprotected sex. Men who used the Internet to set up dates prior to travel reported significantly more sexual partners and were significantly more likely to report having sex with a new partner. Many gay and bisexual men on vacation report behaviors that may place their health at risk, including substance use and unprotected sexual activity. Interventions designed to reduce risk behaviors in this population are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric G Benotsch
- Virginia Commonwealth University, PO Box 842018, Richmond, VA, 23284-2018, USA,
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82
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Lieb S, Fallon SJ, Friedman SR, Thompson DR, Gates GJ, Liberti TM, Malow RM. Statewide estimation of racial/ethnic populations of men who have sex with men in the U.S. Public Health Rep 2011; 126:60-72. [PMID: 21351396 DOI: 10.1177/003335491112600110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Men who have sex with men (MSM) bear the greatest burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in every state in the U.S., but their populations are poorly defined. We estimated and compared populations of MSM in 2007 by region, state, and race/ethnicity. METHODS We averaged findings from two statistical models we had previously developed to estimate the total state-specific percentage and number of males who were MSM. The models were based, respectively, on state-specific rural/ suburban/urban characteristics and an index using state-specific household census data on same-sex male unmarried partners. A third model, based on racial/ethnic ratios from a nationally representative behavioral survey, partitioned these statewide numbers by race/ethnicity. RESULTS Of an estimated 7.1 million MSM residing in the U.S. in 2007, 71.4% (5.1 million) were white, 15.9% (1.1 million) were Hispanic, 8.9% (635,000) were black, 2.7% (191,000) were Asian, 0.4% (26,000) were American Indian/Alaska Native, 0.1% (6,000) were Native Hawaiian/other Pacific Islander, and 0.6% (41,000) were of multiple/unknown race/ethnicity. The overall U.S. percentage of males who were MSM (6.4%) varied from 3.3% in South Dakota to 13.2% in the District of Columbia, which we treated as a state. Estimated numbers of MSM ranged from 9,612 in Wyoming to 1,104,805 in California. CONCLUSIONS Plausible estimates of MSM populations by state and race/ethnicity can inform and guide HIV/AIDS surveillance, allocation of resources, and advocacy. They can help in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of HIV prevention programs and other services. Using MSM numbers as denominators, estimates of population-based MSM HIV incidence, prevalence, and mortality rates could help clarify national and state-level epidemic dynamics. Until corroborated by other modeling and/or empirical research, these estimates should be used with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spencer Lieb
- Florida Department of Health, Bureau of HIV/AIDS, Bin A09, 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1715, USA.
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83
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Rhodes SD, Vissman AT, Stowers J, Miller C, McCoy TP, Hergenrather KC, Wilkin AM, Reece M, Bachmann LH, Ore A, Ross MW, Hendrix E, Eng E. A CBPR partnership increases HIV testing among men who have sex with men (MSM): outcome findings from a pilot test of the CyBER/testing internet intervention. HEALTH EDUCATION & BEHAVIOR 2011; 38:311-20. [PMID: 21393625 DOI: 10.1177/1090198110379572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The Internet has emerged as an important tool for the delivery of health promotion and disease prevention interventions. Our community-based participatory research (CBPR) partnership developed and piloted CyBER/testing, a culturally congruent intervention designed to promote HIV testing among men who have sex with men (MSM) within existing Internet chat rooms. Using a quasi-experimental, single-group study design, cross-sectional data were collected from chat room participants, known as "chatters," at pretest (n = 346) and posttest (n = 315). Extant profile data also were collected to describe the demographics of the online population. The intervention significantly increased self-reported HIV testing among chatters overall, increasing rates from 44.5% at pretest to nearly 60% at posttest (p < .001). Furthermore, chatters who reported having both male and female sexual partners had nearly 6 times the odds of reporting HIV testing at posttest. Findings suggest that chat room-based HIV testing intervention may increase testing among MSM who may be difficult to reach in traditional physical spaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott D Rhodes
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, USA.
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84
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Otto-Salaj LL, Traxel N, Brondino MJ, Reed B, Gore-Felton C, Kelly JA, Stevenson LY. Reactions of heterosexual African American men to women's condom negotiation strategies. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2010; 47:539-551. [PMID: 19760529 PMCID: PMC2888974 DOI: 10.1080/00224490903216763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
This study describes responses of 172 single heterosexual African American men, ages 18 to 35, to condom negotiation attempts. Strategies used included reward, coercive, legitimate, expert, referent, and informational strategies, based on Raven's (1992) influence model. The purpose was (a) to identify strategies influencing participant acquiescence to request and (b) to identify predictors of participant compliance/refusal to comply with negotiation attempts. Participants viewed six videotape segments showing an actress, portrayed in silhouette, speaking to the viewer as a "steady partner." After each segment, participants completed measures of request compliance, positive and negative affect, and attributions concerning the model and themselves. No significant differences were found in men's ratings across all vignettes. However, differences in response existed across subgroups of individuals, suggesting that, although the strategy used had little impact on participant response, the act of suggesting condom use produced responses that differed across participant subgroups. Subgroups differed on levels of AIDS risk knowledge, sexually transmitted disease history, and experience with sexual coercion. Also, the "least willing to use" subgroup was highest in anger-rejection and least likely to make attributions of caring for partner. Effective negotiation of condom use with a male sexual partner may not be determined as much by specific strategy used as by partner characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura L Otto-Salaj
- Center for Addiction and Behavioral Health Research, Departmentof Social Work, Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, P.O. Box 786, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA.
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85
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Sexual intercourse represents the majority of HIV transmission and is preventable. Overall, the risk of HIV transmission following a single sexual exposure is low especially in comparison with other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with estimates of the average probability of male-to-female HIV transmission only 0.0005-0.0026 per coital act. The risk of acquiring HIV from a single contact varies enormously and is dependant upon the infectiousness of the HIV-positive individual and the susceptibility to HIV of their sexual partner. RECENT FINDINGS Of concern, unprotected sex among men who have sex with men (MSM) has increased in recent years and HIV incidence in both MSM and heterosexuals remains a considerable public health concern. Sexual practices and health optimism about HIV have changed, which have significantly impacted HIV risk behaviour. SUMMARY In this review article we summarize the current evidence regarding the observed relative risks of HIV transmission for each different types of sex act, relationship type and the strategies that have been tested to interrupt transmission.
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86
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Schnarrs PW, Rosenberger JG, Satinsky S, Brinegar E, Stowers J, Dodge B, Reece M. Sexual compulsivity, the Internet, and sexual behaviors among men in a rural area of the United States. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2010; 24:563-9. [PMID: 20731609 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2010.0117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual compulsivity has been associated with higher frequencies of sexual behaviors that may increase risk for transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STI). In a rural midwestern region where social and community resources for the sexual health of men who have sex with men (MSM) are relatively few, the patterns of partner-seeking and sexual behavior, and their relations to sexual compulsivity, may be different than findings from other assessments of men in urban centers. Using a community-based participatory approach (CBPR), data were collected from 309 men who were primarily white, identified as gay or homosexual, and had a mean age of 29.37 years (SD = 11.33), to explore relations between scores on a measure of sexual compulsivity and their sexual partner-seeking, drug and alcohol use, and sexual behaviors with men and women. The majority of men reported having engaged in sexual activity with men in the past 30 days. Those scoring higher than the sample mean (1.65 [SD = 0.66]) on the sexual compulsivity measure reported patterns of having sex with partners met online and having been the insertive or receptive partner in unprotected anal intercourse. Given the unique patterns of sexual partner-seeking in this area, interventions to decrease sexual risk-taking should take into account that the vast majority of men in rural areas are using the Internet to locate sexual partners, and prevention messages focused on rural contexts need to be tailored to include men who have a propensity for sexually compulsive behaviors. Additionally, interventions created for virtual spaces may be more sustainable with rural communities than traditional approaches to HIV/STI prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip W. Schnarrs
- Indiana University, Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Joshua G. Rosenberger
- Indiana University, Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Bloomington, Indiana
- Indiana University, School of Medicine, Division of Adolescent Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Sonya Satinsky
- Indiana University, Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Emily Brinegar
- Positive Link, Bloomington Hospital, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Jill Stowers
- Positive Link, Bloomington Hospital, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Brian Dodge
- Indiana University, Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Michael Reece
- Indiana University, Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Bloomington, Indiana
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87
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Driskell JR, O'Cleirigh C, Covahey C, Ripton J, Mayer K, Perry D, Salomon E, Safren S. Building Program Acceptability: Perceptions of Gay and Bisexual Men on Peer or Prevention Case Manager Relationships in Secondary HIV Prevention Counseling. JOURNAL OF GAY & LESBIAN SOCIAL SERVICES 2010; 22:269-286. [PMID: 23710120 PMCID: PMC3660956 DOI: 10.1080/10538720903426388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
There is growing interest in integrating HIV prevention counseling for HIV-infected gay and bisexual men into HIV primary care. HIV-infected peers and professionally trained prevention case managers (PCMs) have been used to provide prevention counseling services. The current qualitative study seeks to examine participant perceptions of the acceptability of HIV-infected peer counselors and of trained prevention case managers from the perspective of 41 HIV-infected gay and bisexual men. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with HIV-infected men who were currently receiving primary HIV health care. Positive peer counselor themes included shared experiences and para-professional. Positive themes specific to the PCM relationships included were provision of resources and professional skills and knowledge. Common themes identified across both peer and PCM counselor relationships were creating a comfortable environment, non-judgmental stance, and rapport building/communication skills. Recommendations for HIV secondary prevention interventions are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey R Driskell
- Fenway Institute at Fenway Community Health, Boston; Salem State College, Salem, Massachusetts
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88
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Reback CJ, Ling D, Shoptaw S, Rohde J. Developing a Text Messaging Risk Reduction Intervention for Methamphetamine-Using MSM: Research Note. Open AIDS J 2010; 4:116-22. [PMID: 20657827 PMCID: PMC2905770 DOI: 10.2174/1874613601004030116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2009] [Revised: 11/15/2009] [Accepted: 11/25/2009] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) who use methamphetamine experience high risks for HIV infection due to sexual transmission behaviors often engaged in when under the influence of methamphetamine. Methamphetamine-using MSM use various forms of information technology (IT) communication such as instant messaging, social networking sites, and websites to facilitate a sexual and/or drug “hook up.” Given the acceptability of IT communication in their daily lives, an IT intervention represents an appropriate strategy to reach and intervene with out-of-treatment, methamphetamine-using MSM. The aim of this study was to conduct formative work to develop a text messaging intervention to reduce methamphetamine use and high-risk sexual behaviors among out-of-treatment MSM, which involved conducting focus groups, community partners’ meetings, and a pre-test intervention. These activities culminated in the development of a two-week, text-messaging intervention that delivered real-time electronic correspondence based on the behavioral change theories of Social Support Theory, Health Belief Model, and Social Cognitive Theory. The focus groups, community meetings, and pre-test were used to identify the IT communication device, the text messages that best support risk reduction and healthier behavioral choices, and logo, flyer and website development. The input and feedback from the target population and community partners were critical to the successful development of a culturally appropriate intervention. The knowledge gleaned from the formative work of this study will be vitally helpful in designing future IT studies.
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89
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Reisner SL, Mimiaga MJ, Johnson CV, Bland S, Case P, Safren SA, Mayer KH. What makes a respondent-driven sampling "seed" productive? Example of finding at-risk Massachusetts men who have sex with men. J Urban Health 2010; 87:467-79. [PMID: 20354911 PMCID: PMC2871093 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-010-9439-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Several recent studies have sought to elaborate upon the applicability and validity of respondent-driven sampling (RDS) to find hard-to-reach samples in general and men who have sex with men (MSM) in particular. Few published studies have elucidated the characteristics associated with initial RDS participants ("seeds") who successfully recruited others into a study. A total of 74 original seeds were analyzed from four Massachusetts studies conducted between 2006 and 2008 that used RDS to reach high-risk MSM. Seeds were considered "generative" if they recruited two or more subsequent participants and "non-generative" if they recruited zero or one participant. Overall, 34% of seeds were generative. In separate multivariable logistic regression models controlling for age, race, health insurance, HIV status, and the study for which the seed was enrolled, unprotected anal sex in the past 12 months [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 6.68; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 1.27-35.12; p = 0.03], cocaine use during sex at least monthly during the past 12 months (AOR = 8.81; 95% CI = 1.68-46.27; p = 0.01), and meeting sex partners at social gatherings (AOR = 7.42; 95% CI = 1.58-34.76; p = 0.01) and public cruising areas (AOR = 4.92; 95% CI = 1.27-19.01; p = 0.02) were each significantly associated with increased odds of being a generative seed. These findings have methodological and practical implications for the recruitment of MSM via RDS. Finding ways to identify RDS seeds that are consistently generative may facilitate collecting a sample that is closer to reflecting the MSM who live in all of the communities in a given location or study sample.
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90
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Chiasson MA, Shaw FS, Humberstone M, Hirshfield S, Hartel D. Increased HIV disclosure three months after an online video intervention for men who have sex with men (MSM). AIDS Care 2010; 21:1081-9. [PMID: 20024766 DOI: 10.1080/09540120902730013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
A behavioral intervention for men who have sex with men (MSM) was created for online delivery. The nine-minute video drama "The Morning After" (www.hivbigdeal.org) was designed to promote critical thinking about HIV risk. MSM were recruited for the evaluation through banner ads on a subscription-based gay sexual meeting web site. Participants viewed the intervention online and completed online behavioral questionnaires at enrollment and three month follow-up. Each participant served as his own control. No participant incentives were provided. Follow-up was completed by 522 (54%) of 971 eligible men. Men completing follow-up were similar to those who did not by age and prevalence of unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) but reported more lifetime sex partners. They also differed somewhat by race, education, and HIV testing. In the three months after the intervention, men were significantly more likely to disclose HIV status to partners (odds ratio [OR] = 3.37, p<0.001) and less likely to report a casual partner or UAI in their most recent sexual encounter than at baseline. Of 120 men HIV tested during follow-up, 17 (14%) reported being HIV seropositive. These findings show that MSM at high risk for HIV will participate in a brief online video intervention designed to engage critical thinking and that significant, self-reported increases in HIV disclosure and decreases in risk behavior occurred three months after MSM viewed the video.
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91
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Swendeman D, Rotheram-Borus MJ. Innovation in sexually transmitted disease and HIV prevention: internet and mobile phone delivery vehicles for global diffusion. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2010; 23:139-44. [PMID: 20087189 PMCID: PMC2881840 DOI: 10.1097/yco.0b013e328336656a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Efficacious behavioral interventions and practices have not been universally accepted, adopted, or diffused by policy makers, administrators, providers, advocates, or consumers. Biomedical innovations for sexually transmitted disease (STD) and HIV prevention have been embraced but their effectiveness is hindered by behavioral factors. Behavioral interventions are required to support providers and consumers for adoption and diffusion of biomedical innovations, protocol adherence, and sustained prevention for other STDs. Information and communication technology such as the Internet and mobile phones can deliver behavioral components for STD/HIV prevention and care to more people at less cost. RECENT FINDINGS Recent innovations in STD/HIV prevention with information and communication technology-mediated behavioral supports include STD/HIV testing and partner interventions, behavioral interventions, self-management, and provider care. Computer-based and Internet-based behavioral STD/HIV interventions have demonstrated efficacy comparable to face-to-face interventions. Mobile phone STD/HIV interventions using text-messaging are being broadly utilized but more work is needed to demonstrate efficacy. Electronic health records and care management systems can improve care, but interventions are needed to support adoption. SUMMARY Information and communication technology is rapidly diffusing globally. Over the next 5-10 years smart-phones will be broadly disseminated, connecting billions of people to the Internet and enabling lower cost, highly engaging, and ubiquitous STD/HIV prevention and treatment support interventions.
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92
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Lieb S, Thompson DR, Misra S, Gates GJ, Duffus WA, Fallon SJ, Liberti TM, Foust EM, Malow RM. Estimating populations of men who have sex with men in the southern United States. J Urban Health 2009; 86:887-901. [PMID: 19911282 PMCID: PMC2791823 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-009-9401-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Population estimates of men who have sex with men (MSM) by state and race/ethnicity are lacking, hampering effective HIV epidemic monitoring and targeting of outreach and prevention efforts. We created three models to estimate the proportion and number of adult males who are MSM in 17 southern states. Model A used state-specific census data stratified by rural/suburban/urban area and national estimates of the percentage MSM in corresponding areas. Model B used a national estimate of the percentage MSM and state-specific household census data. Model C partitioned the statewide estimates by race/ethnicity. Statewide Models A and B estimates of the percentages MSM were strongly correlated (r = 0.74; r-squared = 0.55; p < 0.001) and had similar means (5.82% and 5.88%, respectively) and medians (5.5% and 5.2%, respectively). The estimated percentage MSM in the South was 6.0% (range 3.6-13.2%; median, 5.4%). The combined estimated number of MSM was 2.4 million, including 1,656,500 (69%) whites, 339,400 (14%) blacks, 368,800 (15%) Hispanics, 34,600 (1.4%) Asian/Pacific Islanders, 7,700 (0.3%) American Indians/Alaska Natives, and 11,000 (0.5%) others. The estimates showed considerable variability in state-specific racial/ethnic percentages MSM. MSM population estimates enable better assessment of community vulnerability, HIV/AIDS surveillance, and allocation of resources. Data availability and computational ease of our models suggest other states could similarly estimate their MSM populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spencer Lieb
- Florida Department of Health, Bureau of HIV/AIDS, Bin A09, Tallahassee, FL, 32399-1715, USA.
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