Two decades after vaccine license: hepatitis B immunization and infection among young men who have sex with men

Using hepatitis A and B vaccination as a paradigm for effective HIV vaccine delivery

Background: An understanding of vaccine acceptance and uptake is imperative for successful vaccination of populations that will be primary targets for vaccination after a vaccine against HIV is developed and ready for dissemination. Experiences with vaccination against vaccine-preventable hepatitis (VPH) among men who have sex with men (MSM) may offer key insights to inform future HIV vaccination strategies. The purpose of this analysis was to explore what is known currently about vaccination among MSM, using knowledge gained from vaccination against VPH, and to identify important considerations from these experiences that must be explored further as a vaccine against HIV is promoted among MSM. Because cultural and political differences make it difficult to extrapolate findings from studies in one country to another, we have focused our analyses on studies conducted in the USA. Methods: Through a qualitative systematic review of published reports, we identified eight studies that reported correlates of VPH among MSM in the USA. Results: Six major domains of variables associated with vaccination against VPH were identified, including: demographics (e.g. younger age, higher educational attainment); increased vaccine knowledge; increased access to health care; provider recommendation; behaviours (e.g. same-sex behaviour, health-promoting and disease-preventing behaviours); and psychosocial factors (e.g. openness about one’s sexual orientation, reduced barriers to being vaccinated, self-efficacy). Conclusions: Further research is needed to understand vaccination behaviour among MSM and to maximise acceptance and uptake after a vaccine exists. Experiences with VPH provide a real-world model on which to base preliminary assumptions about acceptance and uptake of a vaccine against HIV.

Primary care health issues among men who have sex with men

PURPOSE

The purpose of the article is to examine "appropriate" health care for men who have sex with men (MSM), which is not to suggest "special" health care. As a group, MSM are at increased risk for sexually transmitted infections, anal cancer, and mental health disorders. Focus areas in this article will address health issues that the primary care nurse practitioner (NP) may encounter in clinical practice: anal carcinoma, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), high-risk sexual practices, depression, and substance abuse were topics chosen for inclusion in this article. These topics were among those highlighted in the Healthy People 2010 Companion Document for LGBT Health, which served to examine the healthcare disparities and lack of access to needed services related to sexual orientation.

DATA SOURCE

Extensive literature review of research articles, journals, clinical practice guidelines, books, and public health department Internet Web sites.

CONCLUSIONS

There are unique health disparities that exist for MSM related to social, emotional, and mental health factors, in addition to physical issues such as STDs. There is an increasing need for primary care providers to be aware of these disparities, as well as the factors that influence these disparities, in order to provide multidimensional care and health counseling that is unique to NP practice.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Both the primary care NP and the patient should be aware of the unique healthcare issues among MSM that should be incorporated into the patient's routine health maintenance program. As primary care providers, it is within the standards of practice for NPs to provide culturally competent care, along with health promotion and disease prevention for MSM.

Greater risk for HIV infection of black men who have sex with men: a critical literature review

HIV rates are disproportionately higher for Black men who have sex with men (MSM) than for other MSM. We reviewed the literature to examine 12 hypotheses that might explain this disparity. We found that high rates of HIV infection for Black MSM were partly attributable to a high prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases that facilitate HIV transmission and to undetected or late diagnosis of HIV infection; they were not attributable to a higher frequency of risky sexual behavior, nongay identity, or sexual nondisclosure, or to reported use of alcohol or illicit substances. Evidence was insufficient to evaluate the remaining hypotheses.Future studies must address these hypotheses to provide additional explanations for the greater prevalence of HIV infection among Black MSM.

Epidemiology of human immunodeficiency virus, viral hepatitis (B and C), treponema pallidum, and human T-cell lymphotropic I/II virus among men who have sex with men in Buenos Aires, Argentina

BACKGROUND

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted infections (STI) are prevalent among men who have sex with men (MSM).

GOAL

To estimate the prevalence of HIV and STIs in this group.

STUDY

A total of 694 MSM were tested for HIV, hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), human T-cell lymphotropic (HTLV-I/II) viruses and Treponema pallidum infection.

RESULTS

HIV, HBV, and T pallidum were detected in 13.8%, 37.7%, and 16.9% of subjects, respectively. Prevalences of 1.9% and 0.3% were detected for HCV and HTLV-I/II. A prior history of STI was the most predictor for HIV, HBV, and T pallidum. Use of illegal drugs, blood transfusion history, and multiple sexual partners were associated with HCV. The 2 most common co-infections were HBV/T pallidum and HIV/HBV.

CONCLUSIONS

Infection with HIV, HBV, and T pallidum was elevated among MSM. Routine testing, education, vaccine-based prevention, and control programs need to be implemented in this high-risk population.

Hepatitis B vaccination in HIV-infected patients: a survey of physicians and patients participating in the Aquitaine cohort

In France, HIV-infected (HIV+) patients are frequently coinfected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or at risk for this infection. Physicians and their patients should be more committed to HBV prevention than the average population.

AIMS

To gain insight into the attitude towards HBV and its vaccination in HIV+ patients from the Aquitaine Cohort and their attending physicians in France.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey based on self-administered questionnaires was performed from November 2002 to June 2003. It targeted 198 physicians from the clinical group on AIDS epidemiology (Groupe d'Epidémiologie Clinique du SIDA en Aquitaine, GECSA) or participating in medical HIV networks in southwestern France; and 512 patients from the cohort. Questions concerned the following items for the physicians: HBV status, prescription of HBV serology and vaccination (frequency, type, schedule), risk factors assessed, reasons for non-vaccination; and for the patients: HBV status, information received, risk factors, attitude towards vaccination.

RESULTS

93% of physicians and 22% of patients stated they were vaccinated against HBV. HBV serological status was reported to be systematically ascertained by 75% of physicians, but post-vaccinal testing was only prescribed by 23% of them. The main reasons for not prescribing more often HBV vaccine were forgetting (79%), difficulty to identify subjects at risk (44%) and being afraid of post-vaccinal complications (32%). Thirty percent of patients reported not to have received any information on HBV vaccination. Overall, 44% considered not to be at risk of infection but 82% of them had been confronted with at least one risk. The main reasons for not having been vaccinated were mostly worry about AIDS (70%), not having been asked by physician (65%) or afraid of complications (58%); nonetheless, 42% of patients were willing to be vaccinated.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from this survey underline the need for specific health actions to be undertaken concerning hepatitis B vaccination in HIV+ patients as well as their health care providers.

Public health perspective on vaccine-preventable hepatitis: integrating hepatitis A and B vaccines into public health settings

Hepatitis A and B vaccinations can and should be integrated into public health settings that serve adults at high risk for infection (e.g., sexually transmitted disease and/or human immunodeficiency virus clinics, criminal justice settings), and a policy of universal immunization may be the best way to accomplish this goal in these settings. Although hepatitis vaccines should be given to all susceptible persons at risk, many opportunities to vaccinate adults at high risk are missed, and there are several barriers and challenges to vaccination of adults. These challenges and barriers can be overcome. Successful integration of hepatitis vaccination for adults into existing public health services and clinics has been accomplished across the United States at both state and local levels. Additional funds must be provided for the infrastructure and purchase of vaccines for adults in these settings.

Hepatitis A and B immunization in persons being evaluated for sexually transmitted diseases

Sexual transmission accounts for the majority of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections in industrialized countries. Hepatitis A virus (HAV) can be transmitted by sexual practices that involve fecal-oral exposure. Both infections are disproportionately frequent in men who have sex with men (MSM). Routine immunization against HBV is recommended for MSM and for persons being evaluated or treated for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and HAV immunization is advised for MSM and for other persons at risk who are commonly seen in STD care settings, such as users of illegal drugs. However, numerous attitudinal and structural barriers interfere with routine immunization in persons at risk for sexual acquisition of HAV and HBV. Substantial success has been documented in vaccinating persons at risk in public STD clinics and other settings; however, at a national level, efforts to achieve desired immunization rates have largely failed. Until universal childhood immunization produces a largely immune adult population, the universal vaccination of adults-as a supplement to the current risk-based approaches-may be worthwhile to achieve immunization of persons at risk for sexual transmission of HBV.

Epidemiology of hepatitis B and hepatitis B virus infection in United States children

Before the era of routine hepatitis B vaccination, an estimated 24,000 children acquired hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection each year in the United States. Childhood hepatitis B immunization has led to significant declines in the incidence and prevalence of HBV infection in U.S. children. Because the greatest burden of hepatitis B is caused by complications of hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhosis in adults who were infected with HBV as children, most of the benefits of vaccination have yet to be realized. Reaching the goal of eliminating HBV transmission to children likely will require increasing vaccination coverage, ensuring timely administration of postexposure immunoprophylaxis to prevent more perinatal infections, and continued evaluation of the impact of immunization recommendations.

Integrating hepatitis B prevention into sexually transmitted disease services: U.S. sexually transmitted disease program and clinic trends--1997 and 2001

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to measure the progress since 1997 of implementing sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinic-based recommendations for hepatitis B prevention.

GOAL

The goal of this study was to assess improvements since 1997 in hepatitis B prevention integration in STD services.

STUDY

Repeating a 1997 survey, in 2001, a survey was sent to state, municipal, and territorial STD program managers, previously surveyed clinic managers, and a national sample of 500 STD clinics.

RESULTS

Large increases were found in the percentage of clinics offering hepatitis B vaccine (from 61% to 82%), providing education (49% to 84%), and accessing federal vaccine programs (48% to 84%). Twice as many program managers considered all patients with STDs eligible for hepatitis B vaccination. Lack of resources and patient noncompliance with vaccine series completion were program barriers.

CONCLUSIONS

Hepatitis B policies and vaccination and education efforts in STD clinics have improved; however, many barriers reported in 1997 remained in 2001.

The impact of male-to-male sexual experience on risk profiles of blood donors

BACKGROUND

Men who have had sex with men (MSM) since 1977 are permanently deferred from donating blood. Excluding only men who engaged in male-to-male sex within either the prior 12 months or 5 years has been proposed. Little is known about infectious disease risks of MSM who donate blood.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Weighted analyses of data from an anonymous mail survey of blood donors were conducted to examine the characteristics of men reporting male-to-male sex during specified time periods.

RESULTS

Of the 25,168 male respondents, 569 (2.4%) reported male-to-male sex, 280 (1.2%) since 1977. Compared to donors who did not report male-to-male sex, the prevalence of reactive screening test results was higher among donors who reported the practice within the past 5 years (< or =12 months odds ratio [OR] 5.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.6-10.4; >12 months to 5 years, OR 7.1, 95% CI 1.2-41.7); however, no significant difference was found for donors who last practiced male-to-male sex more than 5 years ago (>5 years-after 1977, OR 1.4, 95% CI 0.7-2.6; 1977 or earlier, OR 1.6, 95% CI 0.7-3.7). The prevalence of unreported deferrable risks (UDRs) other than male-to-male sex was significantly higher for all donors who reported male-to-male sex with ORs ranging from 3.1 to 18.9 (p < or = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

No evidence was found to support changing current policy to permit donations from men who practiced male-to-male sex within the past 5 years. For donors with a more remote history of male-to-male sex, the findings were equivocal. A better understanding of the association between male-to-male sex and other UDRs appears needed.

High Level of Hepatitis B Infection and Ongoing Risk Among Asian/Pacific Islander Men Who Have Sex With Men, San Francisco, 2000–2001

OBJECTIVES

This study examined serologic markers of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and immunity among young Asian/Pacific Islander men who have sex with men (API MSM) in San Francisco.

METHODS

Participants were 496 API MSM, aged 18 to 29 years, recruited to participate in a cross-sectional survey using a random, venue-based, time-space sampling method.

RESULTS

Of 489 subjects tested, 28.0% had evidence of past HBV infection, including 8.2% who were chronically infected; 24.9% were immune as a result of vaccination; and 47.0% were susceptible to infection. Self-reported vaccination history was low overall and discrepant with serologic findings.

CONCLUSIONS

HBV infection persists as a significant health problem among API MSM as a result of childhood infection, low vaccination coverage in Asia and the United States, and continuing adult exposure through male-male sex. Although challenging, vigorous efforts are needed to increase vaccination coverage among adult API MSM.

Hepatitis B virus infection and vaccination among young injection and non-injection drug users: missed opportunities to prevent infection

INTRODUCTION

We examined correlates of HBV infection and vaccination and the missed vaccination opportunities among young injection drug users (IDUs) and non-injection drug users (NIDUs).

METHODS

Two hundred IDUs and 124 NIDUs aged 15-30 years were studied. Demographics, drug use and sexual behaviors, and health and incarceration history data were collected. Serology was conducted for antibodies to HBV-core antigen (anti-HBc) and HBV-surface antigen (anti-HBs). Presence of anti-HBc indicated past HBV infection; presence of anti-HBs alone indicated past vaccination.

RESULTS

More IDUs had been infected with HBV in the past than NIDUs (37% versus 19%, P = 0.001). Among male and female IDUs, injection drug use behaviors were significantly associated with past infection. For female IDUs, being African-American and trading sex were also associated with previous infection. Among NIDUs, being female and longer time since sexual debut were associated with past infection. Overall, 11% were vaccinated (10% IDU versus 14% NIDU, P = 0.30). Younger age and drug treatment history were associated with vaccination. Most susceptibles (84%) experienced at least one missed opportunity for vaccination.

CONCLUSION

Young drug users remain at high risk for HBV infection. Vaccination rates remain low despite multiple opportunities for vaccination. An integrated HBV immunization effort should be coordinated among venues frequented by young drug users.

Hepatitis B vaccination for patients with chronic renal failure

BACKGROUND

Chronic renal failure patients are at particular risk of hepatitis B virus infection. Early studies have demonstrated that renal failure patients benefit from vaccination; however, not all studies have consistently shown benefit.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the beneficial and harmful effects of hepatitis B vaccine and of a reinforced vaccination series in chronic renal failure patients.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched The Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register, The Cochrane Renal Group Controlled Trials Register, The Cochrane Controlled Trials Register on The Cochrane Library (Issue 1, 2002),PubMed/MEDLINE (1966 to July 2003), EMBASE (1985 to November 2003), Current Clinical Practice Guidelines (Canadian Immunization Guide and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Surveillance Manual), and Science Citation Index as well as journals, published abstracts, and reference lists of articles.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised clinical trials comparing plasma vaccine with placebo, recombinant vaccine with placebo, recombinant vaccine with plasma vaccine, and a reinforced vaccination series (ie, more than three inoculations) with three inoculations of vaccine in chronic renal failure patients.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Primary outcome measures included incidence of patients developing hepatitis B virus antibodies and infections while secondary outcomes included adverse events, liver-related morbidity, and mortality. Random effects models were used and reported relative risks and 95% confidence intervals (RR and 95% CI).

MAIN RESULTS

We included seven randomised clinical trials. None of them had high quality. Plasma vaccine was significantly more effective than placebo in achieving hepatitis B antibodies (RR 23.0, 95% CI 14.39 to 36.76, 3 trials). We found no statistically significant difference between plasma vaccine or placebo regarding hepatitis B virus infections (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.20 to 1.24). We found no statistically significant differences between recombinant vaccine and plasma vaccine in achieving hepatitis B antibodies (RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.28 to 1.53, 2 trials). Heterogeneity was significant and appeared to be attributable to the dose of vaccine. Two trials examined a reinforced recombinant vaccine strategy, which was not statistically more effective than three inoculations of recombinant vaccine regarding development of hepatitis B antibodies (RR 1.36, 95% CI 0.85 to 2.16).

REVIEWERS' CONCLUSIONS

Plasma derived vaccines are more effective than placebo in achieving hepatitis B antibodies, while no statistically significant difference was found between recombinant and plasma vaccines. No statistically significant difference of effectiveness was observed between a reinforced vaccination series versus routine vaccinations of three inoculations of recombinant vaccine.

Hepatitis A and B infection and vaccination in a cohort of homosexual men in Sydney

Objectives: To determine the prevalence and incidence of hepatitis A (HAV) and B (HBV) infection and vaccination in HIV-negative homosexual men in Sydney, and associated risk factors. Methods: An open prospective cohort study was conducted among a community-based sample of HIV-negative homosexual men in Sydney in 2001–02. Participants underwent a face-to-face interview, regarding demographics, sexual behavioural risk factors and sexually transmitted infections, and blood samples were collected. They were followed annually. Results: Nine hundred and three men completed a baseline interview by the end of 2002. Among them, 68% were seropositive to hepatitis A. The seroprevalence of prior hepatitis B infection was 19%, and 53% had serological evidence of HBV vaccination. Younger men were much more likely to be seronegative, with 48% and 46% of <25-year-olds being seronegative to HAV and HBV respectively. In multivariate analysis HAV and HBV infection were associated with increasing age, greater number of lifetime sex partners and HBV infection was also associated with previous sexually transmitted infections. HAV vaccination was associated with increasing age, greater number of lifetime sex partners, overseas travel in the last year and self-reported anogenital warts. HBV vaccination was associated with higher occupational status, greater lifetime number of sex partners and previous sexually transmitted infections. Conclusion: Substantial proportions of gay community attached young homosexual men are still at risk of HAV and HBV infection. This study points to a need for vaccination strategies which ensure high levels of hepatitis A and B immunity in young sexually active gay men.

Using an integrated approach to understand vaccination behavior among young men who have sex with men: stages of change, the health belief model, and self-efficacy

Studies continue to show that the majority of men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States remain unvaccinated against hepatitis A (HAV); such limited vaccination coverage is a missed opportunity for preventing disease. This study sought to identify beliefs and attitudes associated with motivational readiness for vaccination against HAV among MSM, using a theoretically-integrated framework. Questionnaire data were collected from 358 MSM through bar outreach. MSM with increased readiness to complete the two-dose series perceived lower practical barriers and reported greater healthcare provider communication about their sexual orientation and risk behavior. They also perceived higher benefits to vaccination and higher severity of infection, and had higher self-efficacy to complete the vaccine series. Relationships between stages of change and theory-based constructs from the health belief model and the social learning theory follow predicted patterns suggesting that these theories may provide useful frameworks for understanding vaccination readiness and intervention strategy development among MSM.

Hepatitis A and B vaccination in a sexually transmitted disease clinic for men who have sex with men

BACKGROUND

Sexually transmitted disease clinics can deliver hepatitis vaccines to men who have sex with men, but have been reluctant to do so because of perceived low vaccination completion rates.

GOAL

The goal was to evaluate hepatitis A and B vaccination eligibility, acceptance, and completion and the effectiveness of reminder/recall in a sexually transmitted disease clinic serving men who have sex with men.

DESIGN

Clients self-reported their eligibility for free vaccine. Consenting clients who accepted a first dose of vaccine were systematically assigned to receive telephone reminder/recall or standard follow-up.

RESULTS

Of 1203 clients, 71.8% were eligible for both vaccines; 62.6% of those eligible accepted both. Reminder/recall was associated with increased receipt of the second dose of hepatitis B vaccine (86.7% versus 80.4% among intervention and control groups, respectively), but not with completion of both vaccine series (55.9% versus 58.8%).

CONCLUSION

The majority of clients were eligible for both hepatitis vaccines, and most eligible clients accepted a first dose of both vaccines. Reminder/recall, as delivered at this clinic, failed to increase the proportion of clients who received all vaccine doses. New delivery mechanisms should be explored.

Viral hepatitis among young men who have sex with men: prevalence of infection, risk behaviors, and vaccination

BACKGROUND

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at risk for acquiring hepatitis A virus (HAV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV).

GOAL

The goal was to describe the seroprevalence of and risk factors for viral hepatitis, the frequency of vaccination against HAV and HBV, and reasons for lack of vaccination among young MSM.

STUDY DESIGN

We performed hepatitis serologies on 833 MSM aged 15 to 29 years who attended public venues in King County, Washington.

RESULTS

While 14.6% were HAV-immune due to vaccination, 13.9% had prior HAV infection; 57.9% were susceptible and 13.5% had unclear status. While 24.5% were HBV-immune due to vaccination, 13.3% had prior HBV infection; 44.2% were susceptible and 18.0% had unclear status. Prior HBV infection was associated with prior HAV infection. Men unvaccinated against HAV or HBV were unaware of the vaccines or had never been offered vaccination or perceived themselves at low risk for infection. Among 10 HCV-seropositive men, 70.0% reported injection drug use.

CONCLUSION

MSM must be vaccinated at an early age to prevent acquisition of HAV and HBV. Given the frequency of coinfection with HAV and HBV, a combined vaccine would be useful in this population.

Psychosocial predictors of hepatitis B vaccination among young African-American gay men in the deep south

BACKGROUND

Despite recommendations for vaccination against hepatitis B virus (HBV) of men who have sex with men (MSM), most remain unvaccinated.

GOAL

The goal of this study was to identify attitudes and beliefs associated with vaccination against HBV among black MSM.

STUDY DESIGN

The Birmingham Vaccine Acceptance Questionnaire was used to collect data from gay bar patrons.

RESULTS

Of the 143 participants, nearly 42% reported at least one dose of HBV vaccine. In multivariable analysis, characteristics associated with vaccination were a decreased perception of barriers to HBV vaccination (odds ratio [OR], 0.37; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.22-0.61; P = 0.001); increased perceived medical severity (OR, 5.34; 95% CI, 2.38-11.96; P = 0.001) and personal severity (OR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.38-3.56; P = 0.006) of HBV infection; and increased perceived general medical self-efficacy (OR, 9.22; 95% CI, 3.52-24.11; P = 0.0001) and personal self-efficacy (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.14-4.63; P = 0.008) to complete the three-dose series.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings underscore the need to increase vaccination through innovative approaches to reduce perceived barriers to vaccination while increasing perceived severity of HBV infection and self-efficacy to complete the vaccine series.

Hepatitis vaccines: recent advances

Despite the availability of hepatitis A vaccines that might provide protection for decades, hepatitis B vaccines that provides protection for at least 15 years and the recent introduction of a combined hepatitis A and B vaccine, these infections continue to spread in both the developed and developing world. Hepatitis A vaccine coverage has been limited to high-risk groups: such a selective immunisation policy is unlikely to have a major impact. If adequate immunogenicity in infants is confirmed, dosing schedules can be improved and the costs of vaccination reduced, universal paediatric immunisation with combined hepatitis A and B products is likely to result in the eventual eradication of these infections. In the interim, novel hepatitis A vaccines are being investigated and additional studies on hepatitis A vaccine immunogenicity in infants are in progress. Worldwide use of hepatitis B vaccines for the newborn, young children and high-risk groups should control this infection and obviate the need for a vaccine against hepatitis D. Newer hepatitis B vaccines that may reduce the likelihood of non-responsiveness and have immunotherapeutic value are under study. A recombinant hepatitis E vaccine for use in endemic regions is currently in clinical trials. The development of an effective hepatitis C vaccine has been agonisingly slow and many impediments have been recognised. These include the lack of a susceptible small animal, a high degree of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genomic diversity and failure to produce high quantities of HCV in tissue culture. The development of a novel HCV replicon system may be a major breakthrough. Nonetheless, it may still be exceedingly difficult to produce a vaccine that uniformly provides sterilising immunity; the possibility of developing a hepatitis C vaccine that can prevent chronic infection is an exciting concept that requires further investigation. Advances in recombinant technology, the use of novel genetic (DNA-based) vaccines, expression of hepatitis antigens in plants and improved adjuvants also hold considerable promise.

Rectal use of nonoxynol-9 among men who have sex with men

OBJECTIVES

To assess recent rectal use of nonoxynol-9 (N-9), intent to use the product, and factors associated with N-9 use among men who have sex with men (MSM).

DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey of a diverse sample of MSM in the San Francisco Bay Area.

METHODS

Recruitment conducted at multiple street locations on various days/times or through referral during the Fall of 2001.

RESULTS

Sixty-one percent (349/573) had heard of N-9, of which 55% (192/349) reported hearing in the prior year that N-9 may not be protective against HIV. Of men aware of N-9, 83% (289/349) knowingly used it in their lifetime, of which 67% (193/289) used it during anal intercourse in the previous year. Forty-one percent (79/193) of those who used N-9 during anal intercourse in the past year did so without a condom because they thought it may protect against HIV. Older men were more likely than younger men to have used N-9 for protection. Men who heard that N-9 may not protect were less likely, and African-Americans (versus Caucasians) were more likely, to say they would definitely use N-9 during anal intercourse in the future. Latinos (versus Caucasians), those with unknown HIV serostatus (versus HIV-negative), and those with lower education were less likely to know about N-9 at all, and thus were at risk for unknowingly using N-9.

CONCLUSIONS

Many MSM used N-9 during or following public health warnings about the product. Actions (e.g., information campaigns, warning labels specific to rectal use) should be considered by communities to reduce rectal use of N-9.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Clinical Review

Increases in sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among men who have sex with men (MSM) have coincided with recent increases in sexual risk behaviors across the United States and Europe. The identification of same-sex sexual risk behavior in men and the subsequent risk for certain bacterial and viral infections requires competency in taking a sexual history. Recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of STDs have made STD management easier for physicians and patients and expanded the ability of a variety of health care professionals to participate in the management of STDs. This review focuses on recent developments in the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of common STDs in MSM.

Increasing hepatitis B vaccination among young African-American men who have sex with men: simple answers and difficult solutions

Using a bar-based sample, we identified factors associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination among young African American men who have sex with men (MSM). The mean (+/- standard deviation [SD]) age of the 170 participants was 26 +/- 6.5 years. Nearly 40% reported at least one dose of vaccine; the remainder were completely unvaccinated. Approximately 22% (37) reported having never heard of HBV. Less than 7% of participants reported using condoms the majority of the time during oral intercourse within the past 3 months, and approximately 50% reported using condoms the majority of the time during anal intercourse within the past 3 months. In multivariable analysis, variables associated with vaccination were younger age (odds ratio [OR], 0.44 per 10-year increase in age; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.21-0.93, p = 0.032), higher educational attainment (OR, 4.6; 95% CI: 1.17-12.59, p = 0.003), homosexual as opposed to bisexual behavior (OR, 0.15; 95% CI: 0.06-0.41, p = 0.0001), and recent visits to a health care provider (OR, 4.31; 95% CI: 2.08-8.94, p = 0.0001). Our findings underscore the need to reach MSM for HBV vaccination. Innovative approaches are necessary to ensure the prevention of infection, transmission and disease among individuals with limited education, bisexual MSM, and men who have limited access to health care.

Understanding correlates of hepatitis B virus vaccination in men who have sex with men: what have we learned?

OBJECTIVES

Hepatitis B infection (HBV) is prevalent among men who have sex with men (MSM) and may lead to significant morbidity and death. Although an effective vaccine exists vaccination rates among MSM are low. We conducted a systematic review to synthesise the various findings from empirical correlational studies to understand HBV vaccination and series completion among MSM.

METHODS

We systematically searched the Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, ERIC, and Web of Science databases to identify the breadth of published studies pertaining to HBV vaccination among MSM and to synthesise findings from these studies to better identify common themes that may direct future research and intervention approaches.

RESULTS

Eight papers specifically addressed correlates of HBV vaccination among MSM. Six domains were identified as predictors of vaccination: (1) demographic variables such as younger age and higher education level; (2) knowledge of the vaccine; (3) access to health care; (4) level of "outness" regarding one's same sex sexual orientation; (5) behavioural factors including sexual and drug use behaviour; and (6) psychosocial variables. Three papers addressed predictors of vaccine series completion among MSM, observing two main domains: (1) demographic variables such as younger age and higher income level; and, (2) behavioural factors including sexual and health promotion behaviours.

CONCLUSIONS

Continued educational efforts, creation of environments that facilitate proper risk factor evaluation, and access to low cost vaccine may facilitate vaccine uptake. Although we observed important trends in the studies we reviewed, there is a lack of empirical research regarding this important public health issue.

Results of an enhanced-outreach programme of hepatitis B vaccination in the Netherlands (1998-2000) among men who have sex with men, hard drug users, sex workers and heterosexual persons with multiple partners

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The Dutch Ministry of Health funded a pilot vaccination project targeting groups at high risk for sex- and drug-related hepatitis B transmission.

METHODS

In seven Municipal Health Service (MHS) areas, three-part hepatitis B vaccination was offered free to men who have sex with men (MSM), drug users (DUs), and heterosexuals with multiple partners, including sex workers (SWs). Four intervention areas recruited participants through care-givers and opinion leaders and offered vaccination at non-MHS sites. Three control areas only used flyers to offer vaccination at MHS during regular hours.

RESULTS

Over 18 months, 13808 persons enrolled for the first vaccination, representing 63% of the targeted population in the intervention areas and 23% in control areas. In intervention areas, only 19% of DUs enrolled, versus 4% in control areas. In both areas, enrollment of the targeted heterosexual population (64%) was satisfactory. MSM were most compliant in having the full series. Of vaccination sources, general practitioners (GPs) attained highest compliance (71%, odds ratio 1.82).

CONCLUSIONS

Dutch MHS facilities can reach high-risk individuals, but DUs require additional outreach. Vaccine coverage was disappointing, but our experience will be deployed nationwide and successful strategies might be employed elsewhere in countries of low endemicity.

Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and combination hepatitis vaccines for immunoprophylaxis: an update

Since the publication of the last extensive review of hepatitis vaccines, use of inactivated hepatitis A vaccines has been extended to high-risk regions of the United States and specific patient groups, such as those with chronic liver disease, and use of the recombinant hepatitis B vaccines has been recommended for older adolescents. A combination hepatitis A and B vaccine, recently approved for licensure by the US Food and Drug Administration, should increase convenience and compliance, reduce the costs of vaccination, and provide prolonged and dual protection for those at risk for hepatitis. Although commercially available vaccines for hepatitis C, D, and E remain a distant goal, advances in vaccine and adjuvant technology, including immunization with DNA-based vaccines, hold promise for the future.

"Barebacking" in a diverse sample of men who have sex with men

OBJECTIVES

To assess the prevalence of and factors associated with "Barebacking" as a sociocultural phenomenon in a sample of HIV-positive and -negative men who have sex with men (MSM), and to assess the reasons for barebacking and venues for meeting partners.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional survey of MSM recruited in the San Francisco Bay Area from July 2000 to February 2001.

METHODS

Barebacking, defined as "intentional anal sex without a condom with someone other than a primary partner", was assessed among men who had heard of the term. Participants were recruited outside multiple venues and interviewed later at community locations. Chi-square and multivariate logistic regression were used for analysis.

RESULTS

The sample (n = 554) of MSM were African-American (28%), Latino (27%), white (31%) and other race/ethnicity (14%); 35% reported being HIV-positive. Seventy per cent of the men had heard of barebacking. Among men aware of the term, 14% had barebacked in the past 2 years (22% of HIV-positive versus 10% of HIV-negative men, P < 0.001); 10% of the full sample did so. The prevalence of barebacking did not differ by race/ethnicity or sexual orientation identification. Men tended to report bareback partners who had the same HIV serostatus; however, a sizeable proportion of men had partners of different or unknown serostatus. Increased physical stimulation and emotional connectedness were the primary reasons for barebacking.

CONCLUSION

New approaches are needed to reduce bareback behavior and the risk of HIV transmission, including innovative health-promoting behavioral and biomedical interventions.