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Cheung DH, Samoh N, Jonas K, Lim SH, Kongjareon Y, Guadamuz TE. Partying in Thailand: Never Testing Among Men Who Have Sex With Men Who Attend Sexualized (Drug) Parties. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:352-358. [PMID: 38301623 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing for Thai men who have sex with men (MSM) is suboptimal, which undermines their linkage to care and subsequent HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake. METHODS We analyzed a cross-sectional survey conducted in 2021 among Thai MSM who attended any private sex parties or circuit parties in the past 3 years ("sexualized parties"). RESULTS Of the 424 men included in our analysis, 47.6% had been recently tested for HIV in the past 1 year, 30.2% had not recently been tested, and 22.2% had never been tested. In our multivariable analysis, relative to participants who had recently tested for HIV, those who have never tested were more likely to have lower education or to live outside of Bangkok, and to have attended both circuit and private sex parties (vs. private sex party only) but were less likely to report any sexually transmitted infection diagnosis or to have heard of PrEP. Participants who had an HIV test more than a year ago were more likely to have attended both circuit and private sex parties (vs. private sex parties only) but were less likely to have any sexually transmitted infection diagnosis, meet sexual partners online, or have heard of PrEP. Rates of condomless anal sex and willingness to use PrEP were similar across groups. CONCLUSIONS Despite the high rates of sexual risk-taking, sexualized party attendees reported suboptimal HIV testing uptake. The joint promotion of HIV testing and PrEP is warranted-especially on-premise HIV testing at circuit parties and outreach at online platforms to reach sexualized party attendees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doug H Cheung
- From the Center of Excellence in Research on Gender, Sexuality and Health, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Nattharat Samoh
- From the Center of Excellence in Research on Gender, Sexuality and Health, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Kai Jonas
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Sin How Lim
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yamol Kongjareon
- From the Center of Excellence in Research on Gender, Sexuality and Health, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
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Yuen AWH, Sang JM, Wang L, Barath J, Lachowsky NJ, Lal A, Elefante J, Hart TA, Skakoon-Sparling S, Grey C, Grace D, Cox J, Lambert G, Noor SW, Apelian H, Parlette A, Card KG, Hull MW, Jollimore J, Moore DM. Attitudes of Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men (GBM) toward Their Use of Amphetamine-Type Stimulants and Relation to Reducing Use in Three Canadian Cities. Subst Use Misuse 2023; 59:278-290. [PMID: 37867395 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2023.2269577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We explored attitudes of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) toward their amphetamine-use and associations with reduced use over time. METHODS We recruited sexually-active GBM aged 16+ years in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver, Canada, from 02-2017 to 08-2019, with follow-up visits every 6-12 months until November 2020. Among participants who reported past-six-month (P6M) amphetamine-use at enrollment, we used logistic regression to identify demographic, psychological, social, mental health, other substance-use, and behavioral factors associated with reporting needing help reducing their substance-use. We used mixed-effects logistic regression to model reduced P6M amphetamine-use with perceived problematic-use as our primary explanatory variable. RESULTS We enrolled 2,449 GBM across sites. 15.5-24.7% reported P6M amphetamine-use at enrollment and 82.6 - 85.7% reported needing no help or only a little help in reducing their substance use. Reporting needing a lot/of help or completely needing help in reducing substance-use was associated with group sex participation (AOR = 2.35, 95%CI:1.25-4.44), greater anxiety symptomatology (AOR = 2.11, 95%CI:1.16-3.83), greater financial strain (AOR = 1.35, 95%CI:1.21-1.50), and greater Escape Motive scores (AOR = 1.07, 95%CI:1.03-1.10). Reductions in P6M amphetamine-use were less likely among GBM who perceived their amphetamine-use as problematic (AOR = 0.17 95% CI 0.10 - 0.29). CONCLUSIONS Most amphetamine-using GBM did not feel they needed help reducing their substance use, and many reported reduced amphetamine-use at subsequent visits. Those who perceived their use as problematic were less likely to reduce their use. Further interventions to assist GBM in reducing their use are needed to assist those who perceive their use as problematic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jordan M Sang
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Lu Wang
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Justin Barath
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nathan J Lachowsky
- University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Community-Based Research Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Allan Lal
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Trevor A Hart
- Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, Canada
- University of Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Joseph Cox
- McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Gilles Lambert
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Syed W Noor
- Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Louisiana State University Shreveport, Shreveport, Louisiana, USA
| | - Herak Apelian
- McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Kiffer G Card
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Mark W Hull
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - David M Moore
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Gaston L, Dixon L. Calling All Mares: Community, Identity, and Group Sex at the San Francisco Horse Market. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023:1-8. [PMID: 37506316 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2023.2236088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, masculinity and sexuality are explored from the perspective of gay men who participate in group-based sexual practices. The work contributes to the limited wider academic inquiry into collective sex environments. This is accomplished through a content analysis of 15 publicly accessible testimonials of men who have attended a group sex event called a "Horse Market" in the USA. The key findings reveal that participants experience a sense of enhanced community identity and unity through engaging in group sex that allows them the freedom to explore sexual boundaries in a way that is permitted, paradoxically, by occurring within an environment that is simultaneously highly regulated and controlled.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Dixon
- Events Management, Liverpool John Moores University
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4
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Marcus U, Jonas K, Berg R, Veras MA, Caceres CF, Casabona J, Schink SB, Schmidt AJ. Association of internalised homonegativity with partner notification after diagnosis of syphilis or gonorrhoea among men having sex with men in 49 countries across four continents. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:8. [PMID: 36597057 PMCID: PMC9809117 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14891-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Partner notification (PN) after a sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnosis is being promoted as a means to interrupt transmission chains. We investigated whether Internalised Homonegativity (IH) is associated with PN among men having sex with men (MSM). METHODS PN, defined as notifying at least one partner after diagnosis of syphilis and gonorrhoea, was queried in two internet-based self-completion surveys conducted between Oct 2017 and May 2018 in 68 countries in Europe, Latin America, Canada, and the Philippines. IH is defined by a man's level of agreement or disagreement with negative social beliefs about male homosexuality. Covariates included in a multivariate regression model with a random intercept at country level were age, HIV diagnosis, partnership status, sexual self-efficacy, HIV serostatus communication during last sex with a non-steady partner, place where this partner was met, and PN-related socio-historical background of the country of residence. We grouped countries in three areas: North- and Central-Western European countries plus Canada, former socialist countries, and Latin-American/Mediterranean countries plus the Philippines. In each of the three areas individuals were assigned to 4 subgroups based on IH quartiles and PN rates were determined for each subgroup. RESULTS PN rates were calculated for 49 countries (excluding countries with less than 10 diagnoses). Mean proportions of MSM notifying their partners were 68.1% and 72.9% after syphilis and gonorrhoea diagnoses, respectively. PN rates were lower in Latin American countries and the Philippines compared to European countries. Within Europe, a North-South divide with lower PN rates in Mediterranean countries was observed. In each of the three regions we mostly observed a stepwise increase of PN rates with decreasing IH. Regression analysis showed lower IH scores associated with higher PN rates. Higher perceived self-efficacy, living in a partnership, and HIV status communication were positively associated with PN. Men who had met their last partner in a gay social venue were more likely to have notified their partners of a syphilis diagnosis compared to men who had met this partner online. Men with diagnosed HIV were less likely to report PN. CONCLUSIONS We could demonstrate that IH was associated with PN among MSM across all countries included in our analysis. Reducing cultural homophobia and ensuring inclusive policies may contribute to STI prevention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Marcus
- grid.13652.330000 0001 0940 3744Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kai Jonas
- grid.5012.60000 0001 0481 6099Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rigmor Berg
- grid.418193.60000 0001 1541 4204Division for the Health Services, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway ,grid.10919.300000000122595234Department of Community Medicine, University of Tromso, Tromso, Norway
| | - Maria Amelia Veras
- grid.419014.90000 0004 0576 9812Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo, Rua Dr Cesario Mota Jr 61, São Paulo, SP 01221-020 Brazil
| | - Carlos F. Caceres
- grid.11100.310000 0001 0673 9488Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies in Sexuality, AIDS and Society, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Jordi Casabona
- Health Department, Centre of Epidemiological Studies of HIV/AIDS and STI of Catalonia (CEEISCAT), Generalitat de Catalunya, Badalona, Spain ,grid.429186.00000 0004 1756 6852Germans Trias I Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Campus Can Ruti, Badalona, Spain ,grid.466571.70000 0004 1756 6246CIBER Epidemiologia Y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain ,grid.7080.f0000 0001 2296 0625Department of Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Preventive Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain
| | - Susanne B. Schink
- grid.13652.330000 0001 0940 3744Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Axel J. Schmidt
- grid.8991.90000 0004 0425 469XDepartment of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Sigma Research, London, UK
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Wright PJ. Pornography Consumption and Condomless Sex among Emerging U.S. Adults: Results from Six Nationally Representative Surveys. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2022; 37:1740-1747. [PMID: 33886380 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2021.1917745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Using six samples of unmarried U.S. residents aged 18-24 who were part of a larger biennial nationally representative survey (2008-2018), the present study examined whether pornography consumption is a risk factor for condomless sex during emerging adulthood. Condomless sex is the norm in popular, commonly consumed, pornography. Further, emerging adulthood is a time of heightened sexual experimentation and risk taking, and many emerging adults view pornography. Consistent with a sexual scripting perspective on media processes and effects, emerging adults who viewed pornography were more likely to have condomless sex than their peers who did not consume pornography. The link between pornography use and condomless sex was similar for men and women, white youth and youth of color, as well as heterosexual and LGB youth. The link was not moderated by age. Further, the link was robust even when indicators of both sexual and nonsexual sensation seeking predilections were included in analyses. These results are consistent with recent suggestions from public health experts that sex education programs need to include modules on pornography literacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Wright
- Communication Science Unit, The Media School, Indiana University
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Arnold T, Stopka TJ, Gomillia CE, Murphy M, Johnson K, Chan PA, Klasko-Foster L, Rogers B, Soler JH, Monger ML, Jacque E, Coats CS, Willie TC, Ogunbajo A, Mena L, Nunn A. Locating the Risk: Using Participatory Mapping to Contextualize Perceived HIV Risk across Geography and Social Networks among Men Who Have Sex with Men in the Deep South. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2022; 59:931-938. [PMID: 33826434 PMCID: PMC8522442 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1906397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
HIV incidence among African American (AA) young men who have sex with men (YMSM) has remained stable even though they made up the largest number of new HIV diagnoses among men who have sex with men (MSM) in 2017. HIV spreads at increased rates in dense sexual networks. Identifying the location of risk behaviors "activity spaces" could inform geographically circumscribed HIV prevention interventions. Utilizing the modified social ecological model we completed five semi-structured focus groups incorporating a modified social mapping technique, based on Singer et al.'s approach. Participants included 27 AA YMSM. Focus groups explored how and where HIV transmission happens in Jackson, Mississippi. Result themes included: 1) location of sexual behaviors, 2) knowledge of geographic hotspots of HIV infection in Jackson, and 3) traveling to meet partners: at home and away. HIV transmission or "activity spaces" may be occurring outside identified HIV hot spots. Mixed geospatial and qualitative methods offered a comprehensive assessment of where HIV transmission occurs, and suggests that geographically circumscribed interventions may need to focus on where individuals living with HIV reside and in specific geographic locations where they engage in behaviors that raise their HIV acquisition risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trisha Arnold
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Thomas J. Stopka
- Department of Public Health & Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, United States (U.S.)
| | - Courtney E.S. Gomillia
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
- School of Science and Mathematics, Mississippi College, Clinton, MS
| | - Matthew Murphy
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | | | - Philip A. Chan
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
- The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Lynne Klasko-Foster
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Brooke Rogers
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
- The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
| | | | - Mauda L. Monger
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Erin Jacque
- Department of Public Health & Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, United States (U.S.)
| | - Cassandra Sutten Coats
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
- The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | | | - Adedotun Ogunbajo
- Harvard University T H Chan School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology
| | - Leandro Mena
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Amy Nunn
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
- The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
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Birch R, Jollimore J, Howard T, Lal A, Cui Z, Rich AJ, Lachowsky N, Moore DM, Hogg RS, Roth EA. Hosts as Gatekeepers for North American Gay and Bisexual Men's Private Group Sex Parties. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2022; 69:1398-1413. [PMID: 33989132 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2021.1913919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Gay and bisexual men's (GBM) group sex parties are considered HIV risk environments due to their association with concurrent sexual partners, condomless anal sex, and polysubstance use. The possibility of group sex party hosts acting as gatekeepers to minimize risks has been suggested, but remains understudied. We analyzed qualitative data from 20 in-depth interviews with North American GBM who recently attended private group sex parties to determine if hosts' actions constitute harm reduction strategies. Results showed hosts acting as gatekeepers before parties by establishing and disseminating themes and rules, screening applicants, and selecting guests. During parties hosts enforced rules and rejected uninvited guests. By their actions, hosts established a more controlled environment compared to public sex-on-premises bathhouses, and facilitated boundary play, the paradoxical behavior of simultaneously desiring risk and safety, previously noted for GBM circuit parties. Results suggest initiating education programs focusing on private group sex party hosts as gatekeepers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Birch
- Social Dimensions of Health, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jody Jollimore
- Community-Based Research Centre for Gay Men's Health, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Terry Howard
- Community-Based Researcher with Lived Experience of HIV, Co-Chair of Momentum Community Engagement Committee, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Allan Lal
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Zishan Cui
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ashleigh J Rich
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nathan Lachowsky
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Public Health and Social Policy, Victoria, British Columbia
| | - David M Moore
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Robert S Hogg
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - Eric Abella Roth
- Centre for Addiction Research of British Columbia, Department of Anthropology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
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Brief Report: Group Sex Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in the Era of PrEP: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 86:e23-e27. [PMID: 33093332 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Group sex has been commonly reported among gay and bisexual men who have sex with men (GBMSM); however, there are limited studies on the factors associated with participating in group sex. SETTING A cross-sectional study among GBMSM attending a sexual health clinic in Melbourne, Australia. METHODS Univariable and multivariable logistic regression were performed to examine the association between GBMSM participating in group sex in the previous 3 months and their demographic characteristics, including age, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use, HIV status, any STI (gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis) diagnosis on the day, and method of seeking partners. RESULTS There were 357 GBMSM who participated in the survey and their mean age was 32.9 years (SD = 10.9). Almost a third (n = 115; 32.2%) had participated in group sex in the previous 3 months. GBMSM who sought sex partners at sex on premises venues (SOPVs) [aOR 5.83; 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.23 to 10.53] had the highest odds of group sex participation after adjusting for other potential confounders. Compared with GBMSM not living with HIV and not taking PrEP, GBMSM taking PrEP had higher odds of group sex participation (aOR 2.09; 95% CI: 1.05 to 4.15), but GBMSM living with HIV did not (aOR 0.93; 95% CI: 0.23 to 3.68).Recent group sex participation was not associated with being diagnosed with any STI (chlamydia, syphilis, or gonorrhea) on the day in the adjusted analyses. CONCLUSION PrEP users and MSM attending SOPVs are more likely to participate in group sex. SOPV could be important venues for future public health campaigns.
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Day-level associations between drug use and sexual behavior in male couples: Actor partner interdependence modeling of timeline follow-back data. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 225:108758. [PMID: 34049098 PMCID: PMC8418276 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both marijuana and other illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine/crack, methamphetamines, ecstasy, gamma-hydroxybuterate, and ketamine) have been linked to the occurrence of condomless anal sex (CAS) with casual partners among sexual minority men (SMM) and these associations largely generalize to partnered SMM. Software advances now permit testing the day-level correspondence between participants' sexual behavior and their own drug use (actor effects) as well as their partners' (partner-effects). METHODS Participants comprised 50 couples (100 individuals) recruited in the New York City metro area. All were 18 or older and identified as cis male. In each couple, at least one partner was 18-29 years old, HIV-negative, reported recent (past 30 day) drug use and recent (past 30 day) CAS with a casual partner or CAS with a non-monogamous or sero-discordant main partner at screening. RESULTS Marijuana was associated with CAS between main partners on days both partners reported its use. A similar pattern was observed for other illicit drugs. Respondents were more likely to report CAS with casual partners on days CAS between main partners occurred. Both marijuana and other illicit drugs were associated with increased likelihood of CAS with casual partners on days a main partner did not use drugs. These associations were attenuated on days where partners reported the use of different drugs. CONCLUSIONS The co-occurrence of CAS with main and casual partners maximizes shared sexual risk. Results support the continued emphasis on dyadic HIV prevention interventions and the development of theoretically-based interventions that may address drug use by both partners in the relationship.
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10
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Chen J, Fan H, Chen H, Yao F. Correlates of group sex participation among men who have sex with men in Chongqing, Southwestern China. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:561. [PMID: 33752635 PMCID: PMC7983368 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10607-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Findings from specific countries indicated group sex was common among men who have sex with men (MSM), and men who reported group sex participation were at increased risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The purpose of the current analysis was to describe the prevalence and correlates of group sex participation among a community-based sample of MSM in Chongqing, southwestern China. METHODS Convenience sampling method was used to recruit participants and data were collected through an anonymous questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify correlates of group sex participation. RESULTS Overall, 1151 eligible participants were enrolled in the study. 14.7% of MSM reported participating in group sex in their lifetime, and 5.8% reported group sex participation in the prior 6 months. Factors positively associated with group sex participation in both the prior 6 months and the lifetime included: monthly income ≥3000 Yuan (adjusted odds ratios [aOR] = 3.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.25-10.75; aOR = 2.30, 95% CI 1.21-4.35), initiating anal sex before 18 years old (aOR = 1.86, 95% CI 1.03-3.34; aOR = 2.00, 95% CI 1.31-3.05), using gay apps to seek sex partners (aOR = 7.41, 95% CI 2.57-21.33; aOR = 9.75, 95% CI 4.92-19.33), recreational drug use (aOR = 10.10, 95% CI 5.52-18.49; aOR = 4.75, 95% CI 3.20-7.05) and having condomless internal ejaculation (CIE) (aOR = 3.66, 95% CI 2.01-6.68; aOR = 1.61, 95% CI 1.11-2.35). Factors only associated with group sex participation in the lifetime were older age (age between 26 and 35 years old: aOR = 2.06, 95% CI 1.30-3.26; age > 35 years old: aOR = 1.95, 95% CI 1.10-3.46) and history of STIs (aOR = 2.51, 95% CI 1.37-4.62). CONCLUSIONS The results of this study suggested that group sex participation was a potentially risky context for acquisition and transmission of HIV/STIs. Close attention should be given to MSM who participated in group sex, and appropriate risk reduction interventions should be developed specific to this subgroup of MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Chen
- Department of Medical Records and Statistics, the People's Hospital of Tongliang District, Chongqing, China
| | - Hui Fan
- Department of Preventive Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Huailiang Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases Prevention and Healthcare, the People's Hospital of Sichuan Tianfu New Area, Chengdu, China.
| | - Feifei Yao
- Department of STD/HIV Control and Prevention, Sichuan Tianfu New Area Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chengdu, China
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11
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Reyniers T, Nöstlinger C, Vuylsteke B, De Baetselier I, Wouters K, Laga M. The Impact of PrEP on the Sex Lives of MSM at High Risk for HIV Infection: Results of a Belgian Cohort. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:532-541. [PMID: 32857317 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03010-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
There is a need for an in-depth understanding of the impact of PrEP on users' sexual health and behaviour, beyond the focus on 'risk'. This mixed-method study was part of a Belgian PrEP demonstration project following 200 men who have sex with men (MSM) for at least 18 months. Taking a grounded-theory approach, 22 participants were interviewed and their transcripts analysed. The preliminary analysis guided the analysis of the questionnaire data. Overall, PrEP improved sexual health. Participants felt better protected against HIV, which enabled them to change their sexual behaviour. The reduction in condom use was moderated by interviewees' attitudes towards the risk for other STIs. Other changes included having more anal sex and experimentation with new sexual behaviours. While PrEP empowers MSM in taking care of their sexual health, comprehensive sexual health counselling is crucial to provide care for users who feel less in control over their sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thijs Reyniers
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Christiana Nöstlinger
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bea Vuylsteke
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Irith De Baetselier
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Kristien Wouters
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Marie Laga
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
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Reyniers T, Rotsaert A, Thunissen E, Buffel V, Masquillier C, Van Landeghem E, Vanhamel J, Nöstlinger C, Wouters E, Laga M, Vuylsteke B. Reduced sexual contacts with non-steady partners and less PrEP use among MSM in Belgium during the first weeks of the COVID-19 lockdown: results of an online survey. Sex Transm Infect 2020; 97:414-419. [PMID: 33172917 PMCID: PMC7656903 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2020-054756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To examine changes in the occurrence of physical sex with non-steady partners among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Belgium during the first weeks of the COVID-19 lockdown and associations with sociodemographic factors, sexual practices, drug, alcohol and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use. A secondary objective was to explore changes in PrEP use and the need for PrEP follow-up. Methods A cross-sectional online survey. The questionnaire was available in Dutch, French and English, between April 10 and 27 (2020), and disseminated via sexual health and lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer or intersex organisations throughout Belgium. Eligibility criteria included being 18 years or older, not being exclusively heterosexual and living or being born in Belgium. Results The sample included 694 MSM. Physical sex with non-steady partners decreased from 59.1% to 8.9% during the first weeks of the lockdown. Those who had sex with non-steady partners were significantly more likely to be HIV positive, to use PrEP or to have engaged in sexual practices such as group sex, chemsex and sex work before the lockdown, compared with their counterparts. Among those who used PrEP before the lockdown, 47.0% stopped using PrEP, 19.7% used event-driven PrEP and 33.3% used daily PrEP during the lockdown. Almost two-thirds of PrEP users had a PrEP care appointment in the weeks before the lockdown and a minority received follow-up elsewhere or online. Some PrEP users had concerns regarding their follow-up. Conclusions MSM in our survey substantially reduced sexual contact with non-steady partners during the first weeks of the COVID-19 lockdown, suggesting that the risk for HIV and STI transmission in this period was low. We recommend ensuring access to sexual health services, such as HIV testing and follow-up for PrEP for the small group having multiple sex partners and engaging in sexual practices such as chemsex, or group sex, even in times of a pandemic threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thijs Reyniers
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Anke Rotsaert
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | | | - Veerle Buffel
- Department of Sociology, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | | | - Ella Van Landeghem
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Jef Vanhamel
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | | | - Edwin Wouters
- Department of Sociology, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Marie Laga
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Bea Vuylsteke
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
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Kohli M, Hickson F, Free C, Reid D, Weatherburn P. Cross-sectional analysis of chemsex drug use and gonorrhoea diagnosis among men who have sex with men in the UK. Sex Health 2020; 16:464-472. [PMID: 30760386 DOI: 10.1071/sh18159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Illicit drug use among men who have sex with men (MSM) has been associated with sexual risk and HIV. Less is documented about associations with other sexually transmissible infections (STIs). The aim of the present study was to determine whether the use of drugs commonly associated with chemsex is associated with increased risk of gonorrhoea among MSM. METHODS Using data from 16065 UK-based respondents to the European MSM Internet Survey (2010), we examined associations between a recent diagnosis of gonorrhoea and three chemsex drugs (crystal methamphetamine, γ-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB)/γ-butyrolactone (GBL) and mephedrone). Univariate logistic regression identified determinants of gonorrhoea diagnosis and multivariate logistic regression models calculated adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for independent associations between chemsex drugs and gonorrhoea. RESULTS MSM who reported using crystal methamphetamine and GHB/GBL in the previous year had 1.92- and 2.23-fold higher odds of gonorrhoea respectively over the same period (P=0.0001 and P<0.0001; n=15137) after adjusting for age, recruitment website, HIV status, residence and use of other chemsex drugs. MSM reporting the use of all three chemsex drugs had the highest increased odds (aOR 3.58; P<0.0001; n=15174). Mephedrone alone was not associated with gonorrhoea in multivariate models. CONCLUSIONS Use of chemsex drugs is associated with a higher risk of gonorrhoea. The results of this study complement existing research about crystal methamphetamine and indicate a role for GHB/GBL in adverse sexual health outcomes. The use of mephedrone alongside other chemsex drugs may account for its lack of association with gonorrhoea in multivariate models. Future research should use encounter-level data, examine other STIs and attribute pathways through which chemsex leads to infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manik Kohli
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7H, UK
| | - Ford Hickson
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7H, UK; and Corresponding author.
| | - Caroline Free
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7H, UK
| | - David Reid
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7H, UK
| | - Peter Weatherburn
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7H, UK
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Chen J, Huang YL, Chen HL, Xia J. Nitrite inhalants use, sexual behaviors and HIV/syphilis infection among men who have sex with men in Chongqing, China. Infect Dis Poverty 2020; 9:127. [PMID: 32887643 PMCID: PMC7650275 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-020-00748-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging evidence indicates nitrite inhalants have become increasingly prevalent among men who have sex with men (MSM). The present study aimed to describe the prevalence and correlates of nitrite inhalants use and its association with risky sexual behaviors and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/syphilis infection among MSM in Chongqing, a city in China where MSM were burdened with the highest pooled HIV prevalence in the country. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted in Chongqing between March 2019 and February 2020. Information of demographics, drug use, sexual behaviors and HIV testing was collected through an anonymous survey. Blood samples were drawn from each participant for the diagnoses of HIV and syphilis. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate factors correlated with nitrite inhalants use and its relationship with risky sexual behaviors and HIV/syphilis infection. RESULTS Of the 1151 eligible participants, 18.9% (218) reported use of at least one type of recreational drugs in the past 6 months, and nitrite inhalants were the most commonly used substance (17.7, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 15.6-20.2%). The proportions of participants reported engaging in group sex and practicing condomless internal ejaculation during anal sex in the past six months were 5.8% (95% CI: 4.4-7.2%) and 41.7% (95% CI: 38.7-44.7%), respectively. The general prevalence of HIV and syphilis infection among the enrolled MSM were 16.8% (95% CI: 14.7-19.0%) and 12.6% (95% CI: 10.7-14.4%), respectively. Factors positively associated with nitrite inhalants use included: age ≤ 25 (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.10-3.94), monthly individual income ≥ CNY 3000 (Chinese Yuan) (aOR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.18-3.22), preferring receptive anal intercourse (aOR = 2.27, 95% CI: 1.34-3.84) and versatile anal intercourse (aOR = 2.60, 95% CI: 1.64-4.13), age at first anal intercourse < 18 (aOR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.21-2.67), engaging in group sex in the past six months (aOR = 9.34, 95% CI: 4.95-17.63), having multiple male sex partners in the past 6 months (aOR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.50-3.58), practicing CIE during anal sex in the past six months (aOR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.19-2.46), HIV infection (aOR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.11-2.66) and syphilis infection (aOR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.23-3.17). CONCLUSIONS This study found that nitrite inhalants were the most commonly used recreational substance among MSM and nitrite inhalants use were associated with higher probability of HIV and syphilis infection. Therefore, increased attention and counselling should be given to nitrite inhalants-using MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Chen
- Department of Medical Records Management, the People's Hospital of Tongliang District, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu-Ling Huang
- Department of STD/HIV Control and Prevention, Sichuan provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chengdu, China
| | - Huai-Liang Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases Prevention and Healthcare, the People's Hospital of Chengdu Tianfu New Area, Chengdu, China.
| | - Ji Xia
- Department of Medical Records Management, the People's Hospital of Tongliang District, Chongqing, China
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Knox J, Boyd A, Matser A, Heijman T, Sandfort T, Davidovich U. Types of Group Sex and Their Association with Different Sexual Risk Behaviors Among HIV-Negative Men Who Have Sex with Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:1995-2003. [PMID: 32500245 PMCID: PMC7321909 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01744-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The current study sought to identify types of group sex acts among HIV-negative men who have sex with men (MSM) and assess their association with different sexual risk behaviors using cross-sectional data of group sex acts reported during 6 waves (2015-2018) of the Amsterdam MSM Cohort Study. Latent class analysis was performed to identify group sex types based on size, familiarity with partners, location, planning, and drug use. Associations between group sex types and sexual behaviors were evaluated using logistic regression with generalized estimating equations, employing the sample mean as a reference. Data at the level of group sex acts were analyzed, while correcting variance estimations for repeated measurements within MSM. A total of 392 MSM engaged in group sex ≥ 1 times, totaling 1033 group sex acts. Four types of group sex emerged: familiar (29%), intimate (27%), impromptu (36%), and party (8%). Familiar group sex (characterized by high proportions of mostly known partners, occurring in private places and involving drug use) had an increased adjusted odds of risky fingering (aOR 1.6, 95%CI 1.3-2.0) and of risky fisting and/or use of sex toys (aOR 2.3, 95%CI 1.6-3.1). Intimate group sex (characterized by high proportions of threesomes, occurring in private places, and not involving drug use) had a decreased adjusted odds of risky fisting and/or use of sex toys (aOR 0.6, 95%CI 0.4-0.9). Impromptu group sex (characterized by high proportions of spontaneity, mostly unknown partners, and taking place in public places) had a decreased adjusted odds of risky fisting and/or use of sex toys (aOR 0.5, 95%CI 0.3-0.7) and of condomless anal intercourse (CAI) (OR 0.6, 95%CI 0.5-0.8). Party group sex (characterized by high proportions of larger groups, mostly unknown partners, and being planned) had an increased adjusted odds of risky fisting and/or use of sex toys (aOR 1.6, 95%CI 1.0-2.7) and of CAI (aOR 1.5, 95%CI 1.1-2.1). The identified types of group sex reflect different dynamics and characteristics, with some types riskier for STIs and others riskier for HIV. HIV and STI prevention efforts could be tailored accordingly. For example, in certain type of public sex environments (e.g., cruising parks), traditional HIV and STI prevention efforts, such as promoting of condom use and PrEP, might be sufficient. However, in other settings (e.g., private parties), where group sex is more likely to be planned and where behaviors such as fisting, sharing of sex toys, and CAI are more likely to take place, which carry different levels of risk for HIV and STI transmission, including that of Hepatitis C, different approaches might be needed, such as broader HIV and STI prevention education efforts or targeting the organizers of group sex events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Knox
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Anders Boyd
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and Prevention, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Amy Matser
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and Prevention, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Titia Heijman
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and Prevention, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Infectious Diseases, STI Outpatient Clinic, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Theo Sandfort
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases Research and Prevention, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Social Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Violette LR, Niemann LA, McMahan VM, Katz DA, Chavez PR, Clark HA, Cornelius-Hudson A, Ethridge SF, McDougal SJ, Ure Ii G, Stekler JD, Delaney KP. Group Sex Events Among Cisgender Men Who Have Sex With Men: Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Survey Study to Explore Participation and Risk-Taking Behaviors. JMIR Res Protoc 2019; 8:e15426. [PMID: 31774403 PMCID: PMC6906620 DOI: 10.2196/15426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Group sex events (GSEs) are common among cisgender men who have sex with men (MSM), pose a unique risk profile for HIV and sexually transmitted disease (STD) transmission, and may be on the rise, in part because of Web-based networking platforms. However, collecting data on GSEs can be challenging, and many gaps exist in our knowledge about GSE participation among MSM. Objective The objective of this study was to develop survey questions addressing aggregate and partner-specific group sex behaviors to measure prevalence of GSEs and associated risks in persons participating in Project Diagnostic Evaluation To Expand Critical Testing Technologies (DETECT), including MSM seeking HIV and STD testing at a public clinic in Seattle, Washington. Methods We developed a computer self-assisted survey that included questions about participant demographics, sexual history, and risk behaviors, including group sex, as a part of Project DETECT, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention–funded study evaluating point-of-care HIV tests. Aggregate and partner-specific questions asked about participation in all GSEs, threesomes, and four-or-more-somes including questions about number and HIV status of sex partners and condom use during the events. To evaluate question performance, we assessed the discrepancies in reporting between the aggregate and partner-specific questions, quantified question refusal rates, and calculated the additional time required to answer the GSE questions. Information about network density (number of partnerships of overlapping duration) was estimated and compared for MSM who did and did not report GSEs. Results Among 841 visits by 690 MSM who were asked any group sex survey question, participation in a GSE of any type in the past 3 months was reported at 293 visits (293/841, 34.8%). We found that 9.0% (76/841) of MSM in the sample reported ≥1 four-or-more-some in the partner-specific questions but did not report in the aggregate. The proportion of refusals on any given aggregate GSE-related question ranged from 0% (0/273) to 10.6% (15/141) (median 2.6%) and partner-specific questions ranged from 0% (0/143) to 22% (5/23) (median 3.0%), with questions about four-or-more-somes having the highest proportions of refusals. Completing the aggregate group sex questions added 1 to 2 minutes and the partner-specific questions added an additional 2 to 4 minutes per partner to the total survey length. As expected, the partner-specific GSE questions documented higher density of sexual networks that was not captured by asking about total partner counts and overlap of specific partnerships. Conclusions We found that the Project DETECT survey was able to obtain nuanced information about GSEs. The question skip patterns and consistency checks were effective, and survey fatigue was minimal. More research is needed on GSEs, and our survey represents a promising data collection tool to help fill gaps in knowledge about the subject.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren R Violette
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Lisa A Niemann
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Vanessa M McMahan
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - David A Katz
- HIV/STD Program, Public Health - Seattle & King County, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Pollyanna R Chavez
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Hollie A Clark
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Steven F Ethridge
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Sarah J McDougal
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - George Ure Ii
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Joanne D Stekler
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Kevin P Delaney
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Fulcher K, Shumka L, Roth E, Lachowsky N. Pleasure, risk perception and consent among group sex party attendees in a small Canadian Urban Centre. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2019; 21:650-665. [PMID: 30311867 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2018.1508749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
From a health perspective, group sex parties represent risk environments, as multiple sexual partners and polysubstance use associated with these parties may present risk practices for sexually transmitted infection (STI) transmission. At the same time, group sex parties exemplify sex as recreation, expressed in contemporary sociological theory as sex as leisure or play. In this paper, we report on the findings of an exploratory qualitative study conducted with group sex party attendees and hosts/organisers in a mid-sized Canadian city. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with thirteen individuals identified several sexual communities based on gender composition, sexual orientation, and sexual practice, with variation among and within groups in terms of sexual consent and STI disclosure. All the interviewees discussed at length issues of harm reduction and consent, suggesting that these factors contribute to participants' group sex party experiences regardless of their sexual community. These insights highlight the potential use of group sex parties as avenues to understanding the integration of harm reduction practices with the pursuit of sexual pleasure, information applicable in the context of a wide range of sexuality education programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karyn Fulcher
- a School of Public Health and Social Policy , University of Victoria , Victoria , BC , Canada
| | - Leah Shumka
- a School of Public Health and Social Policy , University of Victoria , Victoria , BC , Canada
| | - Eric Roth
- b Department of Gender Studies , University of Victoria , Victoria , BC , Canada
| | - Nathan Lachowsky
- a School of Public Health and Social Policy , University of Victoria , Victoria , BC , Canada
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18
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Mimiaga MJ, Hughto JMW, Reisner SL. A Randomized Pilot Study of a Group-Delivered HIV Risk Reduction Intervention for At-Risk Urban Men Who Have Sex with Men Who Regularly Attend Private Sex Events. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:1059-1071. [PMID: 30805830 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1326-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2013] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Across HIV prevention studies, as many as 25% of men who have sex with men (MSM) report meeting male partners at private sex events and attendance is associated with increased number of sexual partners, condomless anal sex (CAS), and HIV infection. Despite the need for effective HIV prevention interventions, no risk reduction interventions have been tested to reduce HIV sexual risk of MSM that regularly engage in sexual risk at private sex events. This randomized pilot study assessed the feasibility and acceptability of an HIV risk reduction intervention to reduce CAS among urban MSM (N = 14) reporting risk at a private sex event in the prior 12 months. The intervention arm received four group sessions (2 h/session) focusing on HIV risk reduction education and skills building. Both the intervention (n = 8) and control (n = 6) conditions received HIV testing and pre- and posttest risk reduction counseling and completed a sexual risk and psychosocial assessment visit at baseline and 3 months post-intervention. In addition, intervention participants completed a brief exit interview post-intervention. Mean age was 37 years, and 57% were racial/ethnic minorities. At follow-up, the intervention group reported greater reductions in sexual risk behavior in the past 3 months including number of CAS episodes, number of partners at private sex events, and CAS episodes at private sex events. The intervention group also reported reduced sexual compulsivity, increases in HIV disclosure, and reduced drug use at private sex events over study follow-up. Exit interviews revealed that participants found the intervention to be highly acceptable. Findings demonstrate feasibility of procedures, participant acceptability, and initial promise of a group-delivered HIV risk reduction intervention for MSM who attend and engage in CAS at private sex events. Further testing of this intervention in a larger pilot randomized controlled trial is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Mimiaga
- Center for Health Equity Research, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
- Departments of Behavioral and Social Health Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, 02903, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA.
| | - Jaclyn M W Hughto
- Center for Health Equity Research, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Departments of Behavioral and Social Health Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sari L Reisner
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School/Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Frank K. Rethinking Risk, Culture, and Intervention in Collective Sex Environments. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:3-30. [PMID: 29748787 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1153-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2017] [Revised: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
This article provides a narrative overview of research on HIV/STI risk and collective sexual behavior based on an inclusive analysis of research on environments where people gather for sexual activity-sex clubs, swingers' clubs, bathhouses, parks, private sex parties, etc. The aim is to analyze how collective sex has been approached across disciplines to promote conversation across paradigms and suggest new lines of inquiry. Attention to context-such as the location of sex-was a necessary redress to universalizing models of sexual risk-taking behavior, leading to insights rooted in the particularities of each environment and its users. However, the identification of ever more precise risk groups or environmental idiosyncrasies eventually becomes theoretically restrictive, leading to an overestimation of the uniqueness of sexual enclaves, and of the difference between any given enclave and the broader social milieu. Using a theoretical framework of transgression to interpret the interdisciplinary literature, similarities in the spatial and social organization of collective sex environments are identified. Insights generated from this complementary perspective are then applied to understandings of collective sex: first, the example of male-female (MF) "swingers" is used to illustrate the need to establish, rather than assume, the distinctiveness of each non-normative sexual enclave, and to broaden the conceptualization of context; second, questions are raised about the practicality of interventions in collective sex environments. Finally, new lines of intellectual inquiry are suggested to shed light not just on collective sex but on sociosexual issues more generally, such as increasing protective sexual health behavior or negotiating consent in sexual encounters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Frank
- Department of Sociology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, 89557, USA.
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20
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Abstract
Sexual Sensation Seeking has been identified as a main predictor of unsafe sex that particularly affects LGB people. This study adapts and validates the Sexual Sensation Seeking Scale to Spanish LGB people. For this purpose, we tested the factor structure in 1237 people, ranged from 17 to 60 years old, 880 self-defined as homosexuals and 357 as bisexuals. The results support the appropriateness of this scale for Spanish LGB people and determine two factors, explaining the 49.91% of variance: "physical sensations attraction" and "sexual experiences". Our findings reveal optimal levels of internal consistency in the total scale (α = 0.81) and each factor (α = 0.84 and α = 0.71). Additional analyses have demonstrated convergent validity for this scale. Important implications of the validated Sexual Sensation Seeking Scale in Spanish LGB people are discussed, in order to early detection and preventive interventions for HIV and other sexual health problems.
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Chen H, Yang Y, Huang Y, Dai Y, Zhang J. Prevalence of poppers use and its sexual risks among men who have sex with men in southwestern China: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:1103. [PMID: 30200922 PMCID: PMC6131870 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-6010-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To investigate the prevalence of poppers use and its relationship with sexual risk behaviors among men who have sex with men (MSM) in southwestern China. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in three cities of southwestern China between July and September 2016. Anonymous questionnaire survey was administered to collect data on demographics, drug use, sexual behaviors, history of STIs and HIV infection. Logistic regression analysis was performed to explore factors correlated with sexual risk behaviors including group sex and unprotected anal intercourse (UAI). Results Of the 1122 participants included in the study, 24.1% reported a history of poppers use. 11.6% MSM reported ever engaging in group sex and 36.2% participants reported UAI with non-regular male partners in the past 12 months. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that age > 25 (OR = 2.96, 95% CI 1.87–4.68), seeking sex partners through the internet (OR = 3.16, 95% CI 1.59–6.29), preferring receptive anal intercourse (OR = 1.91, 95% CI 1.12–3.26) and ever using poppers (OR = 1.88, 95% CI 1.25–2.83) were positively associated with engaging in group sex. Lower levels of education (OR = 1.93, 95% CI 1.33–2.80) and ever using poppers (OR = 1.44, 95% CI 1.01–2.05) were significantly correlated with UAI with non-regular partners. Conclusions The study suggested poppers was prevalent among MSM and its use was significantly associated with sexual risk behaviors. Given high prevalence of HIV among this subpopulation, comprehensive measures are needed to decrease poppers use and its potential risk for HIV transmission in southwestern China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huailiang Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases Prevention and Healthcare, the People's Hospital of Chengdu Tianfu New Area, Chengdu, China.
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Health Care Chengdu Shuangliu District Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuling Huang
- Department of Sexually Transmitted Diseases Control and Prevention, Pidu District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chengdu, China
| | - Yingxue Dai
- Department of Infectious Diseases Control and Prevention, Chengdu Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chengdu, China
| | - Jianxin Zhang
- West China School of Public Health (West China Forth Hospital), Sichuan University, Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
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Meunier É, Siegel K. Sexual Risk Behaviors and Perceptions of Men Who Go to Gay Sex Parties in New York City: Comparisons Between Three HIV Groups. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2018; 55:880-891. [PMID: 29148839 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2017.1393042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) who attend group-sex events often engage in risky sexual behaviors that contribute to the high human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) incidence among this population. We conducted an online survey with 211 New York City MSM who attended sex parties in the prior year and asked them to describe their behaviors and perceptions of risk. We compared responses from HIV-positive-undetectable men (n = 36), HIV-negative men on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP; n = 62), and HIV-negative men never on PrEP (n = 113). In bivariate analyses, undetectable and on-PrEP men had been to more sex parties in the prior six months, had more anal sex partners there, and had higher rates of sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnoses than men never on PrEP. Although less than the other groups, 43% of the presumably HIV-negative men never on PrEP reported condomless anal sex at a party in the prior six months. About half of participants agreed that, at sex parties, they made assumptions about others' HIV status, that they sometimes took more risks than intended, and that the atmosphere of these events was conducive to risk taking. Most disagreed that there was discussion of HIV status at sex parties. Implications for sexual health interventions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Étienne Meunier
- a Department of Sociomedical Sciences , Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
| | - Karolynn Siegel
- a Department of Sociomedical Sciences , Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
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The Associations of Resilience and HIV Risk Behaviors Among Black Gay, Bisexual, Other Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) in the Deep South: The MARI Study. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:1679-1687. [PMID: 28856456 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1881-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Resilience is an understudied intrapersonal factor that may reduce HIV risk among men who have sex with men (MSM). Multivariable Poisson regression models were used to estimate the prevalence ratio (PR) of sexual risk behaviors, HIV prevalence, and history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) with resilience scores in a population-based study among 364 black MSM in the Deep South. Participants with higher resilience scores had a lower prevalence of condomless anal sex with casual sexual partners in past 12 months (PR = 0.80, p value = 0.001) and during their last sexual encounter (PR = 0.81; p value = 0.009). Resilience was inversely associated with a lower prevalence of condomless anal sex with main sexual partners, participating in a sex party/orgy and having a STI in the past 12 months. Resilience may have a protective effect on HIV among black MSM, especially in the Deep South, and should be further explored in studies with prospective designs.
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Noor SW, Adam BD, Brennan DJ, Moskowitz DA, Gardner S, Hart TA. Scenes as Micro-Cultures: Examining Heterogeneity of HIV Risk Behavior Among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men in Toronto, Canada. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2018; 47:309-321. [PMID: 28429157 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-017-0948-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Revised: 12/10/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Using latent class analysis (LCA), we examined patterns of participation in multiple scenes, how sexual risk practices vary by scene, and psychosocial factors associated with these patterns among 470 gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) recruited from Toronto. We calculated posterior probability of being in a class from participation in nine separate scenes. We used Entropy, the Bayesian information criterion and the Lo-Mendel-Rubin likelihood ratio test to identify the best fit model. Fit indices suggested a four-class solution. Half (50%) of the GBM reported no or minimal participation in any scene, 28% reported participating in the dance club scene, 16% reported participating in the BDSM, bear, and leather scenes, and 6% reported participating in circuit, party and play, and sex party scenes. Compared to GBM who did not participate in scenes, GBM participating in the BDSM-Bear-Leather scene were more likely to be older, white, to report higher sexual self-esteem, and to engage in condomless anal sex; Party and Play scene members were more likely to be of Asian origin, and to use drugs before and during sex, whereas Dance Club scene members were more likely to be younger and to report lower self-esteem but higher hope. LCA allowed us to identify distinct social niches or micro-cultures and factors characterizing these micro-cultures. GBM differ in their risk for HIV and STIs according to characteristics associated with participation in distinct micro-cultures associated with scenes. Tailored interventions may be needed that focus on reducing HIV risk and promoting sexual health in specific contexts such as the BDSM-Bear-Leather and Party and Play.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed W Noor
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada.
| | - Barry D Adam
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminology, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
- Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David J Brennan
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David A Moskowitz
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | | | - Trevor A Hart
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
- Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Carter A, Lachowsky N, Forrest JI, Cui Z, Sereda P, Kaida A, Armstrong HL, Card KG, Montaner JS, Moore D, Roth EA, Hogg RS. A latent class analysis of sexual and romantic relationships among HIV-positive and HIV-negative gay and bisexual men in Vancouver. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF HUMAN SEXUALITY 2017. [DOI: 10.3138/cjhs.262.a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Allison Carter
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC
- Epidemiology and Population Health, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC
| | - Nathan Lachowsky
- Epidemiology and Population Health, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC
- School of Public Health and Social Policy, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC
| | - Jamie I. Forrest
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Zishan Cui
- Epidemiology and Population Health, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC
| | - Paul Sereda
- Epidemiology and Population Health, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC
| | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC
| | - Heather L. Armstrong
- Epidemiology and Population Health, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Kiffer G. Card
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC
- Epidemiology and Population Health, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC
| | - Julio S.G. Montaner
- Epidemiology and Population Health, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - David Moore
- Epidemiology and Population Health, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Eric A. Roth
- Department of Anthropology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC
| | - Robert S. Hogg
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC
- Epidemiology and Population Health, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC
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Gama A, Abecasis A, Pingarilho M, Mendão L, Martins MO, Barros H, Dias S. Cruising Venues as a Context for HIV Risky Behavior Among Men Who Have Sex With Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2017; 46:1061-1068. [PMID: 26987977 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-016-0707-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2015] [Revised: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 02/05/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
We examined differences in sexual risk behaviors, HIV prevalence, and demographic characteristics between men who have sex with men (MSM) who visit different types of venues to meet sexual partners, and identified correlates of high-risk behaviors. A cross-sectional behavioral survey was conducted with a venue-based sample of 1011 MSM in Portugal. Overall, 36.3 % of MSM usually visit cruising venues to meet sexual partners (63.7 % only visit social gay venues). Cruising venues' visitors reported higher HIV prevalence (14.6 % [95 % CI 11-18 %] vs. 5.5 % [95 % CI 4-7 %]). Visiting cruising venues was more likely among those older, reporting high number of male sexual partners, group sex, and unprotected anal sex with a partner whose HIV status was unknown. Cruising venues play an important role in increasing risk of HIV transmission among MSM who frequent them. Venue-focused behavioral interventions that promote healthy sexual behaviors are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Gama
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Rua da Junqueira, n. 100, 1349-008, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Ana Abecasis
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Rua da Junqueira, n. 100, 1349-008, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Marta Pingarilho
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Rua da Junqueira, n. 100, 1349-008, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luís Mendão
- Grupo Português de Ativistas sobre Tratamentos de VIH/SIDA, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria O Martins
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Rua da Junqueira, n. 100, 1349-008, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Henrique Barros
- Institute of Public Health of University of Porto, University of Porto Medical School, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sónia Dias
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Rua da Junqueira, n. 100, 1349-008, Lisbon, Portugal
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Is Group Sex a Higher-Risk Setting for HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections Compared With Dyadic Sex Among Men Who Have Sex With Men? Sex Transm Dis 2016; 43:99-104. [PMID: 26766526 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000000389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Group sex has been suggested as a potential high-risk setting for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among men who have sex with men (MSM). We investigated whether group sex is associated with lower condom use during anal sex and higher proportions of STIs compared with dyadic sex among HIV-negative MSM between 2009 and 2012. METHODS Cross-sectional data from 7 data waves of the Amsterdam Cohort Studies were used. The sample consisted of 465 MSM who either reported both group and dyadic sex (at n = 706 visits) or dyadic sex only (at n = 1339 visits) in the preceding 6 months. Logistic regression with generalized estimating equations was used to investigate the association between sexual setting (group vs. dyadic sex), condomless anal sex, and STI. RESULTS Group sex was reported at 35% (706/2045) of visits. Condomless sex was more often reported during dyadic than group sex (odds ratio, 3.64 95% confidence interval, 2.57-5.16). Men who had group sex were more likely diagnosed as having gonorrhea compared with men with dyadic sex (odds ratio, 1.71; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-2.97), but this effect was not retained in the multivariate model. CONCLUSIONS Results demonstrate within-person differences in sexual behavior during group and dyadic sex among MSM. Men were more likely to use condoms during group sex than during dyadic sex. Thus, for some, group sex may not necessarily be risky for HIV infection compared with dyadic sex. However, group sex may be a higher-risk setting for acquiring STIs other than HIV, such as gonorrhea. Group sex encounters should be recognized as distinct sexual settings with specific risk characteristics that need to be addressed accordingly.
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Tang W, Tang S, Qin Y, Zhang Y, Zhang W, Liu C, Tso LS, Wei C, Yang L, Huang S, Yang B, Tucker J. Will Gay Sex-Seeking Mobile Phone Applications Facilitate Group Sex? A Cross-Sectional Online Survey among Men Who Have Sex with Men in China. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0167238. [PMID: 27880823 PMCID: PMC5120867 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0167238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction China is amidst a sexual revolution, with changing sexual practices and behaviors. Sex–seeking mobile phone applications (gay apps) that allow multiple people to meet up quickly may facilitate group sex. This study was therefore undertaken to evaluate group sex among Chinese MSM and to better understand factors associated with group sex. Methods An online survey was conducted from September-October 2014, collecting data on socio-demographics, sexual behaviors, use of gay apps and occurrence of group sex among Chinese MSM. Univariate and multivariable logistic regressions were used to compare group sex and non-group sex participants. Results Of the 1,424 MSM, the majority were under 30 years old (77.5%), unmarried (83.9%), and were gay apps users (57.9%). Overall, 141 (9.9%) participants engaged in group sex in the last 12 months. Multivariate analyses showed that men living with HIV, engaged in condomless anal intercourse with men, and used gay apps were more likely to engage in group sex, with adjusted ORs of 3.74 (95% CI 1.92–7.28), 2.88 (95% CI 2.00–4.16) and 1.46 (95% CI: 1.00–2.13), respectively. Among gay app users, the likelihood of group sex increases with the number of sex partners and the number of sex acts with partners met through a gay app. Conclusions Chinese MSM who engage in group sex are also more likely to engage in other risky sexual behaviors, and gay app use may facilitate group sex. Further research is needed among MSM who engage in group sex in order to target interventions and surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiming Tang
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
- SESH Global, Guangzhou, China
- * E-mail:
| | - Songyuan Tang
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
- SESH Global, Guangzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Yilu Qin
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- SESH Global, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
- SESH Global, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- SESH Global, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuncheng Liu
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- SESH Global, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lai Sze Tso
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chongyi Wei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics & Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Ligang Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shujie Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Joseph Tucker
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
- SESH Global, Guangzhou, China
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Rice CE, Lynch CD, Norris AH, Davis JA, Fields KS, Ervin M, Turner AN. Group Sex and Prevalent Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Men Who Have Sex with Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2016; 45:1411-1419. [PMID: 26392187 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-015-0554-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Revised: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated the direct relation between group sex and prevalent sexually transmitted infections (STI) in a cross-sectional study of men who have sex with men (MSM) presenting at an urban STI clinic in the Midwestern US. Among 231 men who enrolled and reported that they have sex with men, we collected behavioral data using a combination of interviewer and self-administered surveys and extracted STI data from electronic health records. We used modified Poisson regression to examine the unadjusted and adjusted associations between group sex participation and prevalent STI. One-quarter of participants (n = 58) reported group sex participation in the last 3 months. Eighteen percent of participants (n = 42) had gonorrhea and 19 % (n = 45) had chlamydial infection. Men who reported recent group sex were more likely to be HIV-positive, to report recent drug use, and to report unprotected receptive anal intercourse in the past 3 months. After adjustment for age, race, and recent drug use, recent participation in group sex was associated with prevalent gonorrhea infection (prevalence ratio [PR] = 2.11, 95 % confidence interval [CI] = [1.13, 3.95]) but not chlamydia infection (PR = 1.03, 95 % CI = [0.58, 1.84]). We performed a sensitivity analysis in which we also adjusted for unprotected receptive anal intercourse and the results were not substantively changed. In summary, participation in group sex in the past 3 months was associated with a more than twofold increased prevalence of gonorrhea, but not with chlamydia. These findings support group sex participation as a potential contributor to increased STI prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara E Rice
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, N1144 Doan Hall, 410 West 10th Ave., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | - Courtney D Lynch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Alison H Norris
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, N1144 Doan Hall, 410 West 10th Ave., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - John A Davis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Karen S Fields
- Sexual Health Clinic, Columbus Public Health, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Melissa Ervin
- Sexual Health Clinic, Columbus Public Health, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Abigail Norris Turner
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, N1144 Doan Hall, 410 West 10th Ave., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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30
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Noor SW, Wilkerson JM, Schick V, Iantaffi A. Non-monosexual Partnerships: Information, Motivation and Self-Efficacy among Methamphetamine-Using Men Who Have Sex with Men Who Also Have Sex with Women or Transgender Persons. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2016; 28:205-215. [PMID: 28255423 PMCID: PMC5328189 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2016.1168903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sex with more than one gender is associated with higher substance use, and sexual HIV risk. METHODS We examined knowledge, motivation, and self-efficacy to engage in safer substance use and sexual behavior among methamphetamine-using U.S. men who have sex with more than one gender (N=343). RESULTS Almost half(46.2%) of the men reported having sex with a man and a woman or transgender partner in the last 30 days. Compared to monosexual MSM, non-monosexual MSM reported greater condom use self-efficacy however, they reported more sexual partners who inject drugs. CONCLUSION We observed distinct differences between men who do or do not have sex with more than one gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Wb Noor
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - J Michael Wilkerson
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UT Health) School of Public Health, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Vanessa Schick
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UT Health) School of Public Health, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Alex Iantaffi
- Program in Human Sexuality, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Rich AJ, Lachowsky NJ, Cui Z, Sereda P, Lal A, Birch R, Montaner J, Moore D, Hogg RS, Roth EA. Substance use, sexual behaviour and prevention strategies of Vancouver gay and bisexual men who recently attended group sex events. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2015; 18:361-76. [PMID: 26443295 PMCID: PMC4773192 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2015.1084649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Group sex events are an epidemiologically important part of some gay and bisexual men's sexual culture in Canada. Associated with condomless anal intercourse and polysubstance use, such events have been cited as disproportionally contributing to HIV infection rates. We analysed questionnaire data from the Momentum Health Study in Vancouver, Canada, to understand substance use, sexual behaviour, psychosocial variables (Sexual Sensation Seeking, Sexual Escape Motivation, Treatment Optimism) and HIV prevention strategies (sero-sorting, strategic positioning, avoiding anal sex, disclosure, treatment as prevention) of men attending such events, which were defined as group (n ≥ 4 partners) sex parties, blackout events and darkrooms. Analysis by multivariable logistic regression compared men attending group sex events within the past six months (n = 180) with non-attendees (n = 539). Results showed that attendees reported: (1) significantly higher use of sex drugs and alcohol consumption, (2) higher scores on the Sexual Sensation Scale, more anal sex partners, greater odds of any condomless anal sex with sero-discordant partners and greater odds of reporting fisting and sex toy use and (3) different prevention practices that varied by HIV-serostatus. Findings are interpreted in light of the importance of pleasure, sociality and HIV/STI prevention strategies associated with group sex events. Findings contribute to the development of appropriate education and intervention for attendees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashleigh J Rich
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Nathan J Lachowsky
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Zishan Cui
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Paul Sereda
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Allan Lal
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Robert Birch
- Department of Anthropology, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
- Centre for Addictions Research of British Columbia, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
| | - Julio Montaner
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - David Moore
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Robert S Hogg
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - Eric A Roth
- Department of Anthropology, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
- Centre for Addictions Research of British Columbia, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
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32
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Allen VC, Myers HF, Ray L. The Association Between Alcohol Consumption and Condom Use: Considering Correlates of HIV Risk Among Black Men Who Have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2015; 19:1689-700. [PMID: 25935215 PMCID: PMC4553138 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-015-1075-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological data indicate Black men who have sex with men (MSM) are the most at-risk group for HIV infection. However, the factors driving this disparity are not fully understood. Condom use remains a significant point of intervention in mitigating sexually transmitted infections. Alcohol consumption is highly prevalent among Black MSM, has a significant role in the culture of sex, and may significantly interfere with condom use. This review will examine the relationship between alcohol consumption and condom use among Black MSM. In this review we, (a) discuss the prevalence of alcohol use among MSM and its association with condom use; (b) consider the role of alcohol in the culture of MSM; (c) review the literature on the relationship between alcohol and condom use; and (d) discuss the role of several empirically-supported moderating variables in strengthening the relationship between alcohol use and noncondom use. This review places the finding and implications for HIV risk among Black MSM in the context of the broader literature on MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent C Allen
- Psychology Department, University of California, Los Angeles, 1285 Franz Hall, Box 951563, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1563, USA,
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Hirshfield S, Schrimshaw EW, Stall RD, Margolis AD, Downing MJ, Chiasson MA. Drug Use, Sexual Risk, and Syndemic Production Among Men Who Have Sex With Men Who Engage in Group Sexual Encounters. Am J Public Health 2015; 105:1849-58. [PMID: 25713951 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2014.302346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We surveyed men who have sex with men (MSM) to determine whether sexual risk behaviors, recent drug use, and other psychosocial problems differed between men who engaged in one-on-one and group sexual encounters. METHODS We conducted an Internet-based cross-sectional survey of 7158 MSM aged 18 years or older in the United States recruited from a gay-oriented sexual networking Web site in 2008. Among MSM who engaged in group sexual encounters, we compared their past-60-day sexual behaviors in one-on-one encounters and group sexual encounters. We also compared risk profiles and syndemic production between men who did and did not participate in group sex. RESULTS Men reporting a group-sex encounter had significantly higher polydrug use and sexual risk than did the men not reporting group sex in the past 60 days. The odds of engaging in group sex with 4 or more sexual partners significantly increased with the number of psychosocial problems, supporting evidence of syndemic production. CONCLUSIONS We identified a particularly high-risk subgroup in the MSM population with considerable psychosocial problems that may be reached online. Research is needed on how to engage these high-risk men in combination prevention interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Hirshfield
- Sabina Hirshfield, Martin J. Downing Jr, and Mary Ann Chiasson are with Public Health Solutions, Research and Evaluation Unit, New York, NY. Eric W. Schrimshaw is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York. Ronald D. Stall is with the Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Andrew D. Margolis is with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Prevention Research Branch, Atlanta, GA
| | - Eric W Schrimshaw
- Sabina Hirshfield, Martin J. Downing Jr, and Mary Ann Chiasson are with Public Health Solutions, Research and Evaluation Unit, New York, NY. Eric W. Schrimshaw is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York. Ronald D. Stall is with the Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Andrew D. Margolis is with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Prevention Research Branch, Atlanta, GA
| | - Ronald D Stall
- Sabina Hirshfield, Martin J. Downing Jr, and Mary Ann Chiasson are with Public Health Solutions, Research and Evaluation Unit, New York, NY. Eric W. Schrimshaw is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York. Ronald D. Stall is with the Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Andrew D. Margolis is with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Prevention Research Branch, Atlanta, GA
| | - Andrew D Margolis
- Sabina Hirshfield, Martin J. Downing Jr, and Mary Ann Chiasson are with Public Health Solutions, Research and Evaluation Unit, New York, NY. Eric W. Schrimshaw is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York. Ronald D. Stall is with the Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Andrew D. Margolis is with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Prevention Research Branch, Atlanta, GA
| | - Martin J Downing
- Sabina Hirshfield, Martin J. Downing Jr, and Mary Ann Chiasson are with Public Health Solutions, Research and Evaluation Unit, New York, NY. Eric W. Schrimshaw is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York. Ronald D. Stall is with the Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Andrew D. Margolis is with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Prevention Research Branch, Atlanta, GA
| | - Mary Ann Chiasson
- Sabina Hirshfield, Martin J. Downing Jr, and Mary Ann Chiasson are with Public Health Solutions, Research and Evaluation Unit, New York, NY. Eric W. Schrimshaw is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York. Ronald D. Stall is with the Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Andrew D. Margolis is with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Prevention Research Branch, Atlanta, GA
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Phillips G, Grov C, Mustanski B. Engagement in group sex among geosocial networking mobile application-using men who have sex with men. Sex Health 2015; 12:495-500. [PMID: 26255156 DOI: 10.1071/sh15108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men who have sex with men (MSM) remain the group most affected by the HIV epidemic in the United States. At least one-quarter of MSM report engagement in group sex events (GSEs), which can pose a risk for HIV transmission and acquisition. In this study, identification of event-level correlates of sexual and drug use behaviours at GSEs was sought to better inform prevention activities. METHODS For this study, participants were recruited via banner and pop-up advertisements placed on a geosocial networking mobile phone application that MSM use to meet men. RESULTS Of the 1997 individuals who completed the study screener, 36.0% reported participating in at least one GSE in the prior year. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, attendance at a GSE in the past year was significantly associated with older age, full/part time employment and being HIV positive. Of the men who attended a GSE, more than half reported condomless anal sex (CAS) with at least one of their partners (insertive: 57.7%; receptive: 56.3%). MSM who indicated drug use had significantly higher odds of having insertive CAS [odds ratio (OR)=2.45; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.37-4.39] and receptive CAS (OR=3.60; 95% CI: 1.96-6.63) at their last GSE. CONCLUSIONS The high prevalence of HIV-positive MSM engaging in group sex, coupled with their greater odds of CAS, poses a significant risk for HIV/STI transmission within the group sex setting. More research is needed to determine patterns of condom use at these events and whether seroadaptive behaviours are driving CAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Phillips
- Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Medical Social Sciences, 625N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Christian Grov
- Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College, City University of New York (CUNY), 2900 Bedford Avenue, New York, NY 11210, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Medical Social Sciences, 625N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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Grov C, Rendina HJ, Ventuneac A, Parsons JT. Partners met via sex parties present significantly greater odds for condomless anal sex among MSM: an event-level analysis of venues where male partners are met. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2014; 67:564-8. [PMID: 25226209 PMCID: PMC4229438 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
One hundred forty-seven men who have sex with men completed time-line follow-back interviews about the venues where they met their male partners (n = 1180 sexual events with first-time partners, <30 days). We ran multivariate models to determine the association between venues and condomless anal sex (CAS). After adjusting for known correlates of CAS, partners met at sex parties presented significantly greater odds for CAS compared with meeting a partner at a gay bar/club (adjusted odds ratio = 0.44), online (adjusted odds ratio = 0.42), bathhouse (adjusted odds ratio = 0.35), or via "other" venues (adjusted odds ratio = 0.35), all P < 0.01. These findings highlight the need to develop innovative HIV/sexually transmitted infection prevention initiatives for men who attend sex parties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College of the City University of New York (CUNY). 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY. 11210
- Doctoral Program in Public Health, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
| | - H. Jonathon Rendina
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
- Doctoral Program in Basic and Applied Social Psychology, The Graduate Center of CUNY
| | - Ana Ventuneac
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
| | - Jeffrey T. Parsons
- Doctoral Program in Public Health, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
- Doctoral Program in Basic and Applied Social Psychology, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Doctoral Program in Health Psychology, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of CUNY
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Men who have sex with mens' exposure to, use of, and subjective experiences with the 'NYC Condom'. AIDS Behav 2014; 18:2172-7. [PMID: 24806454 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-014-0783-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In 2007, the New York City (NYC) Department of Health introduced the 'NYC Condom'--a Lifestyles® condom with a 'NYC' logo. Few studies have evaluated attitudes toward or distribution of the 'NYC Condom' among men who have sex with men (MSM)--a population at increased risk for HIV/STIs. 148 MSM completed a survey about their exposure to, use of, and experiences using the 'NYC Condom.' The majority (93.2 %) had seen the 'NYC Condom;' 82.4 % of said men had used it. Among MSM who used it, 82.1 % rated it average or above. Exposure did not statistically differ by race/ethnicity, HIV status, gay or barebacker identification, or sex role. Use was neither significantly associated with demographic characteristics nor recruitment source, suggesting distributional success in reaching various sub-populations of MSM. Among those who had not used the 'NYC Condom,' 22.2 % reported size or quality concerns, suggesting a demand for alternative prevention campaigns.
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Correlates of group sex among a community-based sample of men who have sex with men (MSM) in Washington, DC. AIDS Behav 2014; 18:1413-9. [PMID: 23700223 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-013-0527-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Participation of MSM in group sex events (GSEs) is an understudied phenomenon. Studies on GSEs identified significant proportions of MSM engaging in unprotected anal intercourse (UAI). We sought to identify the prevalence of group sex participation among MSM in Washington, DC and to characterize these experiences. Data were collected for NHBS-MSM-3 in 2011. More than one-quarter of MSM (27.2 %) reported engaging in group sex in the prior year, with one-third reporting no condom use with their sex partners (33.0 %). In multivariable logistic regression, men who participated in a GSE in the prior year were significantly younger, more likely to be white, and to have used crystal meth, poppers, and downers in the past year. The high prevalence of UAI during GSEs, especially in view of the fact that HIV-positive MSM were significantly less likely to report condom use, offers an opportunity to develop risk reduction interventions specific to GSE attendees.
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Grov C, Rendina HJ, Parsons JT. Comparing three cohorts of MSM sampled via sex parties, bars/clubs, and Craigslist.org: implications for researchers and providers. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2014; 26:362-82. [PMID: 25068182 PMCID: PMC4116634 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2014.26.4.362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
With limited exceptions, few studies have systematically reported on psychosocial and demographic characteristic differences in samples of men who have sex with men (MSM) based on where they were recruited. This study compared three sexually active cohorts of MSM recruited via Craigslist.org (recruited via modified time-space sampling), gay bars and clubs (recruited via time-space sampling), and private sex parties (identified via passive recruitment and listserves), finding mixed results with regard to differences in demographic characteristics, STI history, and psychosocial measures. Men recruited from sex parties were significantly older, reported more symptoms of sexual compulsivity, more likely to be HIV-positive, more likely to report a history of STIs, and more likely to self-identify as a barebacker, than men recruited from the other two venues. In contrast, men from Craigslist.org reported the lowest levels of attachment to the gay and bisexual community and were the least likely to self-identify as gay. Men from bars and clubs were significantly younger, and were more likely to report use of hallucinogens and crack or cocaine. Our findings highlight that the venues in which MSM are recruited have meaningful consequences in terms of the types of individuals who are reached.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College of the City University of New York (CUNY). 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY. 11210
- Doctoral Program in Public Health, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
| | - H. Jonathon Rendina
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
- Doctoral Program in Basic and Applied Social Psychology, The Graduate Center of CUNY
| | - Jeffrey T. Parsons
- Doctoral Program in Public Health, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST)
- Doctoral Program in Basic and Applied Social Psychology, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Doctoral Program in Health Psychology, The Graduate Center of CUNY
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of CUNY
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Meunier É. No attitude, no standing around: the organization of social and sexual interaction at a gay male private sex party in New York city. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2014; 43:685-95. [PMID: 23979786 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-013-0182-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2012] [Revised: 02/21/2013] [Accepted: 03/19/2013] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Following the onset of the AIDS epidemic, many jurisdictions have outlawed commercial sex-on-premise venues (bathhouses, adult theaters, sex clubs), greatly changing the culture of public or group sex. Today, in New York City (NYC), private sex parties are the main venues for group sex. Dozens of such events are held on a regular basis in the city, attracting sometimes a few hundred participants. Past research in group sex venues shows that different spaces allow for different kinds of sexual and social interaction. What are the norms of interaction of today's private sex parties? This article answers this question by using data collected ethnographically in one recurring gay male private sex party in NYC. The event was a small organization that brought all its participants together in one space at the same time, thus creating great physical intimacy and leading to convivial socialization and interpersonal bonding. This differs from the model of anonymous and impersonal sex that previous researchers have seen in public and commercial spaces. Private sex parties present risk for the transmission of HIV and other sexually-transmitted infections, but their organization and norms of interaction also present new avenues for prevention. Policy-makers should work to make these places safer rather than outlawing them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Étienne Meunier
- Sociology Department, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 26 Nichol Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA,
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Grov C, Cruz J, Parsons JT. Men who have sex with men's attitudes toward using color-coded wristbands to facilitate sexual communication at sex parties. SEXUALITY RESEARCH & SOCIAL POLICY : JOURNAL OF NSRC : SR & SP 2014; 11:11-19. [PMID: 24659929 PMCID: PMC3959108 DOI: 10.1007/s13178-014-0145-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Sex parties are environments where men who have sex with men (MSM) have the opportunity to have sex with multiple partners over a brief period of time. Dim lighting and non-verbal communication are characteristics of sex parties that make sexual communication more challenging. We report on qualitative data from 47 MSM who attended sex parties in New York City. Participants responded to distinct hypothetical scenarios involving the use of color-coded wristbands to communicate (1) condom use preferences, (2) sexual position (e.g., top, bottom) and (3) HIV status at sex parties. The majority had positive-to-neutral attitudes toward color-coded wristbands to indicate (1) condom use preference and (2) sexual position (70.8%, 75.0% HIV-positive; 63.6%, 81.8%, HIV-negative respectively). These men cited that wristbands would facilitate the process of pursuing partners with similar interests while also avoiding the discomforts of verbal communication. In contrast, 41.7% of HIV-positive and 50.0% of HIV-negative men expressed unfavorable attitudes to using wristbands to communicate HIV status. These men cited the potential for HIV-status discrimination as well as suspicions around dishonest disclosure. Although participants were receptive to utilizing color-coded wristbands at sex parties to convey certain information, it may be unfeasible to use wristbands to communicate HIV status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Doctoral Program in Public Health at the Graduate Center of CUNY, New York, NY, USA
- The Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST), New York, NY, USA
| | - Jackeline Cruz
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of CUNY, New York, NY. USA
| | - Jeffrey T. Parsons
- Doctoral Program in Public Health at the Graduate Center of CUNY, New York, NY, USA
- Doctoral Programs in Health Psychology, and Basic and Applied Social Psychology at the Graduate Center of CUNY, New York, NY. USA
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Safika I, Johnson TP, Cho YI, Praptoraharjo I. Condom Use Among Men Who Have Sex With Men and Male-to-Female Transgenders in Jakarta, Indonesia. Am J Mens Health 2013; 8:278-88. [PMID: 24203992 DOI: 10.1177/1557988313508430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This article examined differences in condom use during anal intercourse among men who have sex with men (MSM) and male-to-female transgender women in Jakarta, Indonesia. A cross-sectional design, structured interviews, and hierarchical linear modeling were used to examine condom use among MSM recruited from entertainment places (EPs; e.g., discotheques/dance clubs/karaoke bars), massage parlors (MPs), and among transgender women who congregated and/or sought sexual partners on streets/parks (S/P). The sample consisted of 91, 97, and 114 of MSM-EP, MSM-MP, and transgender-S/P, respectively. Respondents reported on 641 unique sexual partner encounters, which were "nested" within 302 respondents. Reported condom use was high, 66%, 84%, and 83% for MSM-EP, MSM-MP, and transgender-S/P, respectively, and varied across type of respondent. At the individual level, depressive symptoms and history of physical abuse during childhood and adulthood were associated with lower condom use (p < .05). By contrast, having a higher level of education was associated with more condom use (p < .05). At the partner level, condom use was associated with type of partners and the use of club drugs before sex. HIV-prevention efforts should take into account the multilevel determinants of condom use within these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iko Safika
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Young Ik Cho
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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Grov C, Rendina HJ, Breslow AS, Ventuneac A, Adelson S, Parsons JT. Characteristics of men who have sex with men (MSM) who attend sex parties: results from a national online sample in the USA. Sex Transm Infect 2013; 90:26-32. [PMID: 24052337 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2013-051094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare three groups of men who have sex with men (MSM)-men who had attended a sex party in the past year (45.2%); men who had been to a sex party more than a year ago (23.3%); and men who had never been to one (31.5%)-on socio-demographic and behavioural characteristics. METHOD In spring 2012, 2063 sexually active MSM in the USA were recruited using banner advertising on a sexual networking website to complete an online survey about their sexual behaviour and attendance at sex parties. RESULTS A significantly higher proportion of past year attendees were HIV-positive (28.1%), single (31.7%), demonstrated sexual compulsivity symptomology (39.2%), recently used drugs (67.8%), averaged the greatest number of recent male partners (Mdn=15, <90 days), and had greater instances of recent unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) with male partners (median=3, <90 days). Adjusting for covariates, those having been to a sex party in the last year were significantly more likely than others to report UAI. Free lubricant (93.4%) and condoms (81.0%) were the most desirable services/products men wanted at sex parties. More than half of men having been to a sex party expressed interest in free rapid HIV testing at sex parties (52.8%); however, few considered it acceptable to see 'medical providers' (11.7%) and 'peer outreach workers' (9.5%) at sex parties. CONCLUSIONS MSM who have attended a sex party in the last year are appropriate candidates for targeted HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention. Collaborating with event promoters presents valuable opportunities to provide condoms, lubricant and HIV/STI testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College, City University of New York, , New York, New York, USA
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Grov C, Rendina HJ, Ventuneac A, Parsons JT. HIV risk in group sexual encounters: an event-level analysis from a national online survey of MSM in the U.S. J Sex Med 2013; 10:2285-94. [PMID: 23809410 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Researchers have investigated group sexual encounters (GSEs) as potential sources for HIV/STI transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM); however, much of this work has focused on organized sex parties. AIM To compare behavioral and social characteristics of groups of men who engaged in three types of GSEs: threesomes, spontaneous group sex, and organized sex parties. METHODS In 2012, 1,815 U.S.-based MSM completed an online survey. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE We compared men based on their most recent type of GSE: threesome (68.2%), spontaneous group sex (19.7%), or organized sex party (12.1%). RESULTS Using multinomial logistic regression, with type of GSE as the dependent variable, MSM who were HIV-positive, used stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine, crack), consumed five or more alcoholic drinks, and reported receptive unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) during the most recent GSE had significantly higher odds of having had spontaneous group sex as compared to a threesome. MSM who were HIV-positive, not in a relationship, and did not report receptive UAI during the most recent GSE had significantly higher odds of having attended an organized sex party as compared to a threesome. MSM who were in a relationship, had consumed five or more alcoholic drinks, had used stimulants, and reported receptive UAI during the most recent GSE had significantly higher odds of having had spontaneous group sex as compared to an organized sex party. Compared to others, those having engaged in a GSE were more likely to report recent UAI (65% vs. 45%). CONCLUSIONS Men having engaged in a GSE were at greater risk for behaviors that transmit HIV and STIs. Unique social and behavioral characteristics inherent to threesomes, spontaneous group sex, and sex parties highlight the need to identify prevention strategies to help those who participate in GSEs reduce their risk for HIV and STI transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA; Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies and Training (CHEST), New York, NY, USA; CUNY School of Public Health, The Graduate Center of CUNY, New York, NY, USA
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Klein H. Involvement in Specific HIV Risk Practices among Men Who Use the Internet to Find Male Partners for Unprotected Sex. JOURNAL OF ADDICTION 2013; 2013:826039. [PMID: 24826369 PMCID: PMC4008398 DOI: 10.1155/2013/826039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2013] [Accepted: 02/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose. Men who have sex with other men (MSM) account for more than one-half of all new HIV infections in the USA. This study reports on the prevalence of a variety of HIV risk behaviors in one specific subpopulation of risk-seeking MSM. Methods. The study was based on a national sample of 332 MSM who use the Internet to find partners for unprotected sex. Data collection was conducted via telephone interviews between January 2008 and May 2009. Results. Unprotected oral and anal sex was commonplace among study participants. Men engaged in a large number of other risky behaviors as well, including having had multiple recent sex partners (mean number = 11), simultaneous double-penile penetration of the anus (16%), eating semen out of another man's anus (17%), engaging in multiple-partner sexual encounters (47%), engaging in anonymous sex (51%), and having sex while "under the influence" (52%). Conclusions. HIV intervention and prevention programs need to address numerous behaviors that place MSM at risk for contracting/transmitting HIV. Merely focusing on unprotected anal sex does a disservice to members of this community, who typically engage in many types of behavioral risks, each of which requires addressing if HIV transmission rates are to be reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh Klein
- Kensington Research Institute, 401 Schuyler Road, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA
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