Trends in AIDS incidence and survival among racial/ethnic minority men who have sex with men, United States, 1990-1999

Facilitators and Barriers to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Willingness Among Young Men Who Have Sex with Men Who Use Geosocial Networking Applications in California

While correlates of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake have been explored among older men who have sex with men (MSM), less is known about the facilitators and barriers that encourage uptake among younger MSM (YMSM). This study explores the association between willingness to take PrEP and demographic characteristics, sexual risk, and substance use, and attitudinal factors among YMSM in California who use geosocial networking applications (GSN apps). Based on survey data from YMSM recruited through GSN apps (n = 687), PrEP willingness was positively associated with Hispanic ethnicity [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.73; confidence interval (CI): 1.01-2.98; p = 0.046], concerns about drug effects (aOR: 0.46; CI: 0.33-0.65; p < 0.001), medical mistrust (aOR: 0.71; CI: 0.53-0.96; p < 0.001), and concerns about adherence (aOR: 0.65; CI: 0.49-0.89; p = 0.005). PrEP willingness was positively associated with medium (aOR: 1.87; CI: 1.14-3.07; p = 0.014) and high concern (aOR: 1.84; CI: 1.13-3.01; p < 0.001) about contracting HIV and perceived benefits of taking PrEP (aOR: 2.59; CI: 1.78-3.78; p < 0.001). In addition to emphasizing the benefits of using PrEP, campaigns that address concerns regarding adherence and side effects may increase interest in and demand for PrEP among YMSM. More opportunities are needed to educate YMSM about PrEP, including addressing their concerns about this new prevention strategy. Providers should speak openly and honestly to YMSM considering PrEP about what to do if side effects occur and how to handle missed doses. Outreach using GSN apps for PrEP education and screening may be an effective way to reach YMSM.

HIV Prevention Research for African Americans: Current and Future Directions

African Americans experience HIV and AIDS at a rate 10 times greater than the U.S. White population. Although there have been advances in HIV risk-reduction strategies, these efforts have not been as successful in decreasing HIV infection in the African American population. This article reviews the research base of HIV prevention interventions to identify research that will lead to the development of more effective prevention strategies for African Americans. Major limitations found in the research include the exclusion of African Americans in studies, particularly those at higher risk, and the lack of using culturally based theory to guide research. Recommendations for improving research are offered. They include conducting research that focuses on structural interventions rather than individuals, controlling for diversity within the African American population, defining culture when using it in research, and developing a cadre of African American researchers involved in prevention intervention studies.

The Relationship Between Online Social Network Use, Sexual Risk Behaviors, and HIV Sero-Status Among a Sample of Predominately African American and Latino Men Who have Sex with Men (MSM) Social Media Users

Social networking technologies have emerged as potential platforms to reach HIV(+) MSM in HIV interventions. This study sought to compare use of online social networking sites (SNSs) and sexual risk behaviors between HIV(+) and HIV(-) individuals among a sample of predominately African American and Latino SNS-using MSM. A total of 112 MSM Facebook users were recruited online and offline and completed an online survey. We performed regression models to assess the association between HIV status, SNS use, and sexual risk behaviors. After adjusting for age, race, and employment status, being HIV positive was significantly associated with a greater number of sexual partners (ARR = 2.84, p = 0.0017) and lower comfort levels of discussing HIV/STI status on SNSs (AOR: 0.23, p = 0.011). Findings suggest that HIV status is associated with sexual risk behaviors and SNS use among SNS-using MSM. We discuss the implications for online HIV prevention.

Recruiting Black Men Who Have Sex with Men and Women (BMSMW) in an Urban Setting for HIV Prevention Research

OBJECTIVES

Concerns related to stigma and confidentiality limit HIV-related study recruitment and retention of Black men who have sex with men and women (MSMW). This paper examines lessons learned from recruitment strategies utilized in enrolling 437 participants between 2007 and 2011 for a randomized controlled trial to test a culturally specific HIV risk-reduction intervention for Black MSMW.

METHODS

Interested respondents completed a brief screener and participants completed surveys at baseline and at post, 3 and 6 months follow-up. Recruitment patterns were assessed by examining the source of study information reported when respondents were asked how they learned about the study. Chi-square tests were then conducted to examine differences in the distribution of participants by self-reported HIV status, age group and socio-economic status (SES) for each type of study information source.

RESULTS

Regardless of HIV or SES, study respondents were more likely to have received information about the study through a service agency than from other sources. Participants ages 30-49 and 50+ years were most likely to have learned about the study from an agency (34.9% and 27.0%, respectively) or another participant/friend (20.1%, 23.1%) and least likely to have found out from bus (0.8%, 0.0%) or radio (1.3%, 0.0%) advertisements; whereas younger participants were more likely to have heard about the study through a friend/participant (23.4%) than an agency (15.4%). Although, 14.1% of participants' ages less than 30 years reported the Internet as their source of study information, this compared to just 2.7% and 4.8% for participants in the 30-49 and 50-plus age groups.

CONCLUSIONS

While agencies and referrals from personal networks appear to be the most significant recruitment source for potential HIV research participants, there is evidence that Internet based tools may enhance recruitment, particularly among younger Black MSMW.

Tal Como Somos/just as we are: an educational film to reduce stigma toward gay and bisexual men, transgender individuals, and persons living with HIV/AIDS

In this article, the authors describe the development and dissemination of a film-based educational intervention to reduce negative attitudes toward gay and bisexual men, transgender women, and people living with HIV/AIDS in Latino communities, with a focus on youth. The intervention, Tal Como Somos/Just as We Are, is based on stigma and attribution theories, extensive formative research, and community input. Evaluation findings among educators and school youth suggest the film has the potential to effectively influence attitudes toward gay and bisexual men, transgender women, and people living with HIV/AIDS. The film and intervention are being disseminated using diffusion of innovations theory through community-based organizations, schools, television broadcasting, and film festivals.

Situational, partner, and contextual factors associated with level of risk at most recent intercourse among Black men who have sex with men

African American men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States bear a disproportionate burden of HIV infection and disease incidence. 178 Black MSM provided detailed situational information concerning their most recent act of anal intercourse (AI) with a male partner including condom use, partner characteristics, serostatus disclosure, and substance use. Participants completed scales assessing AIDS-related as well as broader contextual domains. Most recent AI acts occurred with same-race partners outside of main relationships. Over one-third of AI acts were unprotected, and almost half of the unprotected acts were not between known HIV-concordant partners. Nearly half of men reported substance use before sex. In a multiple regression analysis, unprotected AI with a partner not known to be concordant was predicted by low risk reduction intentions and indicators of a casual relationship. The findings highlight issues and partner contexts associated with risk for contracting HIV infection among Black MSM.

Rural AIDS diagnoses in Florida: changing demographics and factors associated with survival

PURPOSE

To compare demographic characteristics and predictors of survival of rural residents diagnosed with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) with those of urban residents.

METHODS

Florida surveillance data for people diagnosed with AIDS during 1993-2007 were merged with 2000 Census data using ZIP code tabulation areas (ZCTAs). Rural status was classified based on the ZCTA's rural-urban commuting area classification. Survival rates were compared between rural and urban areas using survival curves and Cox proportional hazards models controlling for demographic, clinical, and area-level socioeconomic and health care access factors.

FINDINGS

Of the 73,590 people diagnosed with AIDS, 1,991 (2.7%) resided in rural areas. People in the most recent rural cohorts were more likely than those in earlier cohorts to be female, non-Hispanic black, older, and have a reported transmission mode of heterosexual sex. There were no statistically significant differences in the 3-, 5-, or 10-year survival rates between rural and urban residents. Older age at the time of diagnosis, diagnosis during the 1993-1995 period, other/unknown transmission mode, and lower CD4 count/percent categories were associated with lower survival in both rural and urban areas. In urban areas only, being non-Hispanic black or Hispanic, being US born, more poverty, less community social support, and lower physician density were also associated with lower survival.

CONCLUSIONS

In rural Florida, the demographic characteristics of people diagnosed with AIDS have been changing, which may necessitate modifications in the delivery of AIDS-related services. Rural residents diagnosed with AIDS did not have a significant survival disadvantage relative to urban residents.

Community poverty and trends in racial/ethnic survival disparities among people diagnosed with AIDS in Florida, 1993-2004

OBJECTIVES

We described the racial/ethnic disparities in survival among people diagnosed with AIDS in Florida from 1993 to 2004, as the availability of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) became widespread. We determined whether these disparities decreased after controlling for measures of community-level socioeconomic status.

METHODS

We compared survival from all causes between non-Hispanic Blacks and non-Hispanic Whites vis-a-vis survival curves and Cox proportional hazards models controlling for demographic, clinical, and area-level poverty factors.

RESULTS

Racial/ethnic disparities in survival peaked for those diagnosed during the early implementation of HAART (1996-1998) with a Black-to-White hazard ratio (HR) of 1.72 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.62, 1.83) for males and 1.40 (95% CI = 1.24, 1.59) for females. These HRs declined significantly to 1.48 (95% CI = 1.35, 1.64) for males and nonsignificantly to 1.25 (95% CI = 1.05, 1.48) for females in the 2002 to 2004 diagnosis cohort. Disparities decreased significantly for males but not females when controlling for baseline demographic factors and CD4 count and percentage, and became nonsignificant in the 2002 to 2004 cohort after controlling for area poverty.

CONCLUSIONS

Area poverty appears to play a role in racial/ethnic disparities even after controlling for demographic factors and CD4 count and percentage.

Comparisons of disparities and risks of HIV infection in black and other men who have sex with men in Canada, UK, and USA: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

We did a meta-analysis to assess factors associated with disparities in HIV infection in black men who have sex with men (MSM) in Canada, the UK, and the USA.

METHODS

We searched Embase, Medline, Google Scholar, and online conference proceedings from Jan 1, 1981, to Dec 31, 2011, for racial comparative studies with quantitative outcomes associated with HIV risk or HIV infection. Key words and Medical Subject Headings (US National Library of Medicine) relevant to race were cross-referenced with citations pertinent to homosexuality in Canada, the UK, and the USA. Data were aggregated across studies for every outcome of interest to estimate overall effect sizes, which were converted into summary ORs for 106,148 black MSM relative to 581,577 other MSM.

FINDINGS

We analysed seven studies from Canada, 13 from the UK, and 174 from the USA. In every country, black MSM were as likely to engage similarly in serodiscordant unprotected sex as other MSM. Black MSM in Canada and the USA were less likely than other MSM to have a history of substance use (odds ratio, OR, 0·53, 95% CI 0·38-0·75, for Canada and 0·67, 0·50-0·92, for the USA). Black MSM in the UK (1·86, 1·58-2·18) and the USA (3·00, 2·06-4·40) were more likely to be HIV positive than were other MSM, but HIV-positive black MSM in each country were less likely (22% in the UK and 60% in the USA) to initiate combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) than other HIV-positive MSM. US HIV-positive black MSM were also less likely to have health insurance, have a high CD4 count, adhere to cART, or be virally suppressed than were other US HIV-positive MSM. Notably, despite a two-fold greater odds of having any structural barrier that increases HIV risk (eg, unemployment, low income, previous incarceration, or less education) compared with other US MSM, US black MSM were more likely to report any preventive behaviour against HIV infection (1·39, 1·23-1·57). For outcomes associated with HIV infection, disparities were greatest for US black MSM versus other MSM for structural barriers, sex partner demographics (eg, age, race), and HIV care outcomes, whereas disparities were least for sexual risk outcomes.

INTERPRETATION

Similar racial disparities in HIV and sexually transmitted infections and cART initiation are seen in MSM in the UK and the USA. Elimination of disparities in HIV infection in black MSM cannot be accomplished without addressing structural barriers or differences in HIV clinical care access and outcomes.

FUNDING

None.

A Community-Based Approach to Enhancing Anal Cancer Screening in Hawaii's HIV-Infected Ethnic Minorities

OBJECTIVE

Disparities in anal cancer incidence among Hawaii's HIV-infected minority population is an emerging health concern. Although anal cytology/anoscopy are effective anal cancer screening tools, social barriers exist that prevent individuals from seeking appropriate care.

DESIGN

Community based participatory research (CBPR) principles were applied to develop resources, including testing a self-obtained anal specimen procedure, to increase anal cancer screening among Hawaii's underserved/ minority populations.

METHODS

A team of community members, academic researchers, and health care providers developed culturally-sensitive educational/recruitment materials regarding anal cancer risk targeting underserved/minority HIV-infected individuals. Self- and health care provider (HCP)-obtained anal cancer screening specimens were reviewed for cytology and tested for human papillomavirus DNA. A follow-up evaluation elicited feedback on attitudes and experiences.

RESULTS

Community discussion sessions identified key messages about anal cancer, anal cancer screening, and HPV infection for materials and were used, that successfully recruited 46 individuals (38 males/8 females; 9 Native Hawaiians/Pacific Islanders/Asians, 2 Blacks, 6 Hispanics, 6 American Indian/Alaskan Natives, 23 Whites). Concordance in cytology results between self- and HCP-obtained specimens was moderated (kappa=0.37) with the perception that the self-obtained specimen procedure was private (93%), safe (100%), and easy to manage (100%); and a majority (92%) willing to use the self-obtained method again.

CONCLUSIONS

CBPR was a practical approach in engaging Hawaii's HIV-infected minority participation in anal cancer screening research. Community outreach and recruitment efforts suggested that self-obtained screening specimens could be an acceptable and effective means to reach Hawaii's HIV-infected ethnic minorities.

Race and CD4+ T-cell count in HIV prognosis and treatment

CD4+ T-cell count is known to vary by race in HIV-negative individuals. While people of certain races, such as blacks and Asians, continue to be disproportionately burdened by HIV/AIDS, they remain under-represented in most HIV clinical studies. Recent studies suggest that CD4+ count evolution in HIV, before and after therapy, may differ by race. In this review, we summarize the evidence from prospective cohorts comparing CD4+ count trajectories by race, and whether it is of any clinical significance. We find that although minor differences in CD4+ count trajectories exist between people of diverse races, socioeconomic, cultural and environmental differences are far more important in predicting clinical outcomes than racial differences in CD4+ count. Furthermore, current evidence does not support the need for any race or ethnicity-specific CD4+ thresholds for ART and prophylactic therapy initiation. Future long-term trials in racially diverse populations are required to substantiate these findings.

The MaBwana Black men's study: community and belonging in the lives of African, Caribbean and other Black gay men in Toronto

In Canada, there is a paucity of research aimed at understanding Black gay men and the antecedents to risk factors for HIV. This study is an attempt to move beyond risk factor analysis and explore the role of sexual and ethnic communities in the lives of these men. The study utilized a community-based research and critical race theory approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight key informants to augment our understanding of Black gay men and to facilitate recruitment of participants. In-depth interviews were done with 24 Black gay men. Our data showed that the construction of community for Black gay men is challenged by their social and cultural environment. However, these men use their resilience to navigate gay social networks. Black gay men expressed a sense of abjuration from both gay and Black communities because of homophobia and racism. It is essential for health and social programmers to understand how Black gay men interact with Black and gay communities and the complexities of their interactions in creating outreach educational, preventive and support services.

Differences in national antiretroviral prescribing patterns between black and white patients with HIV/AIDS, 1996-2006

OBJECTIVES

The benefit of improved health outcomes for blacks receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) lags behind that of whites. This project therefore sought to determine whether the reason for this discrepancy in health outcomes could be attributed to disparities in use of antiretroviral therapy between black and white patients with HIV.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The 1996-2006 National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Surveys were used to identify hospital outpatient visits that documented antiretrovirals. Patients younger than 18 years, of nonblack or nonwhite race, and lacking documentation of antiretrovirals were excluded. A multivariable logistic regression model was constructed with race as the independent variable and use of HAART as the dependent variable.

RESULTS

Approximately 3 million HIV/AIDS patient visits were evaluated. Blacks were less likely than whites to use HAART and protease inhibitors (odds ratio, 95% CI 0.81 [0.81-0.82] and 0.67 [0.67-0.68], respectively). More blacks than whites used non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (odds ratio, 95% CI 1.18 [1.17-1.18]). In 1996, the crude rates of HAART were relatively low for both black and white cohorts (5% vs 6%). The rise in HAART for blacks appeared to lag behind that of whites for several years, until 2002, when the proportion of blacks receiving HAART slightly exceeded the proportion of whites receiving HAART. In later years, the rates of HAART were similar for blacks and whites (81% vs 82% in 2006). Blacks appeared less likely than whites to use protease inhibitors and more likely than whites to use non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors from 2000 to 2004.

CONCLUSIONS

Blacks experienced a lag in the use of antiretrovirals at the beginning of the study; this discrepancy dissipated in more recent years.

Efficacy of personalized cognitive counseling in men of color who have sex with men: secondary data analysis from a controlled intervention trial

In a previous report, we demonstrated the efficacy of a cognitively based counseling intervention compared to standard counseling at reducing episodes of unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) among men who have sex with men (MSM) seeking HIV testing. Given the limited number of efficacious prevention interventions for MSM of color (MOC) available, we analyzed the data stratified into MOC and whites. The sample included 196 white MSM and 109 MOC (23 African Americans, 36 Latinos, 22 Asians, eight Alaskan Natives/Native Americans/Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, and 20 of mixed or other unspecified race). Among MOC in the intervention group, the mean number of episodes of UAI declined from 5.1 to 1.6 at six months and was stable at 12 months (1.8). Among the MOC receiving standard counseling, the mean number of UAI episodes was 4.2 at baseline, 3.9 at six months and 2.1 at 12 months. There was a significant treatment effect overall (relative risk 0.59, 95% confidence interval 0.35–0.998). These results suggest that the intervention is effective in MOC.

Linkage and retention in HIV care among men who have sex with men in the United States

Men who have sex with men (MSM) continue to be disproportionately affected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. While the MSM population does better than other HIV infection risk groups with regard to linkage to and retention in care, little is known about engagement in care outcomes for important subpopulations of MSM. There is also a dearth of research on engagement in care strategies specific to the MSM population. Key MSM subpopulations in the United States on which to focus future research efforts include racial/ethnic minority, young, and substance-using MSM. Health care systems navigation may offer a promising engagement in care strategy for MSM and should be further evaluated. As is the case for HIV-infected populations in general, future research should also focus on identifying the best metrics for measuring engagement in care.

Lower HIV prevalence among Asian/Pacific Islander men who have sex with men: a critical review for possible reasons

We conducted a critical literature review for possible reasons that may explain the lower HIV prevalence observed among API MSM compared to MSM of other races/ethnicities. Trends emerging from the literature suggest that traditional individual-level factors-unprotected anal intercourse, substance use, STD prevalence, rates and frequency of HIV testing, and utilization of HIV prevention services-do not appear to be related to the lower HIV prevalence among API MSM. Some evidence suggests that socio-cultural and structural factors might be the more critical forces in determining racial/ethnic disparities of HIV among MSM. For API MSM, these factors include structures of sexual networks, access to and reception of medical care and treatment among HIV-positive MSM, and influences of different levels and types of acculturation. Moreover, emerging risk reduction strategies, such as seroadaptive behaviors, could play a role. Future research should address these factors in intervention design. In addition, better theories of resilience and measurement of strengths and protective factors are needed to enhance the efficacy of HIV interventions.

A randomized controlled trial to test an HIV-prevention intervention for Latino gay and bisexual men: lessons learned

At the time of this writing, no randomized controlled trial (RCT) of an intervention to reduce unsafe sex among Latino gay and bisexual men (LGBM) had been published. We report the results of an RCT conducted in New York City in which 180 LGBM were assigned either to an intervention developed specifically for this population or to a wait-list control group. The intervention was based on empowerment theory and used factors identified in prior research as determinants of unsafe sex. By eligibility criteria, all men had engaged in unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) within two months of the baseline assessment. At first (two months) and second (six months later) follow-up assessments, approximately half of the men in the experimental group reported no UAI. Yet, a similar proportion of the control group also reported no UAI. Baseline data indicate that although the men had been the subject of social oppression and sexual prejudice (homophobia), they did not feel disempowered, externally controlled or fatalistic, and they reported self-efficacy and intentionality to enact safer sex. Lessons learned are discussed, as well as notes of caution for future research employing a similar conceptual framework.

Disparities in outcomes for African American and Latino subjects in the Flexible Initial Retrovirus Suppressive Therapies (FIRST) trial

To benefit maximally from antiretroviral therapy, patients with HIV infection must enter care before their disease is advanced and adhere to care. We sought to determine if and where on this continuum of care racial/ethnic disparities were evident. Data from the Flexible Initial Retrovirus Suppressive Therapies (FIRST) trial, which evaluated three strategies for initial HIV therapy, were compared for White, African American, and Latino subjects. Outcomes included progression of disease and death, HIV viral suppression, and change in CD4(+) cell count. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for known predictors of survival. There were 1357 subjects, including 368 non-Latino white, 751 non-Latino African American, and 238 Latino subjects. At baseline, the two latter groups were more likely to have had AIDS and had lower CD4(+) cell counts than white subjects. In follow-up, African American subjects had lower self-reported adherence to therapy, lower CD4(+) cell count increases, and lower odds of viral suppression. African American and Latino subjects had unadjusted hazard ratios of progression of disease or death of 1.57 (1.17, 2.10; p = 0.0025) and 1.57 (1.09, 2.26; p = 0.02), respectively. Adjusting for baseline differences and differences in adherence, CD4(+) cell count change, and viral suppression accounted for the disparities in outcomes. Opportunities to reduce disparities in outcomes for African American and Latino patients exist along the continuum of HIV care. Efforts to promote access to HIV testing and care and to improve adherence have the potential to reduce racial/ethnic disparities in outcomes of patients with HIV infection.

Predictors of death and survival duration among a sample of persons living With HIV/AIDS

A follow-up study was conducted on a sample of 120 ethnically diverse HIV-positive men and women first interviewed in 2000. Participant survival and death rates were ascertained from death records and analyses were performed to identify demographic and psychosocial predictors of survival from the original data. Consistent with past studies, factors associated with survival were age, CD4 count, years HIV positive, and lower alcohol use. Two analyses identified use of professional counseling as a unique factor associated with reduced risk of death. Contrary to our hypotheses, the results from these analyses did not suggest that social groups with fewer economic and institutional resources or those with limited access to highly active retroviral therapy (HAART) therapies were at reduced risk of survival.

Increasing the reach of HIV testing to young Latino MSM: results of a pilot study integrating outreach and services

BACKGROUND

In the U.S., HIV infections are increasing among men who have sex with men (MSM), particularly young, racial/ethnic minority MSM.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the feasibility of increasing HIV testing among young Latino MSM by integrating tailored outreach strategies with testing, counseling, and HIV medical services.

DESIGN

Descriptive study comparing demographic characteristics, behaviors, and HIV test results of clients from the intervention period with clients who tested during other time periods.

RESULTS

Clients in the intervention period were younger and more likely to be Latino than those in other time periods. In addition, clients who received outreach were more likely than those who did not receive outreach to report methamphetamine use, sex with an HIV-positive person, and sex with a sex worker.

CONCLUSION

Venue-based and selective media outreach, in combination with linking rapid testing to HIV care, may help overcome some of the barriers to testing among high-risk young Latino MSM.

Black race as a predictor of poor health outcomes among a national cohort of HIV/AIDS patients admitted to US hospitals: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

In general, the Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) population has begun to experience the benefits of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART); unfortunately, these benefits have not extended equally to Blacks in the United States, possibly due to differences in patient comorbidities and demographics. These differences include rates of hepatitis B and C infection, substance use, and socioeconomic status. To investigate the impact of these factors, we compared hospital mortality and length of stay (LOS) between Blacks and Whites with HIV/AIDS while adjusting for differences in these key characteristics.

METHODS

The 1996-2006 National Hospital Discharge Surveys were used to identify HIV/AIDS patients admitted to US hospitals. Survey weights were incorporated to provide national estimates. Patients < 18 years of age, those who left against medical advice, those with an unknown discharge disposition and those with a LOS < 1 day were excluded. Patients were stratified into subgroups by race (Black or White). Two multivariable logistic regression models were constructed with race as the independent variable and outcomes (mortality and LOS > 10 days) as the dependent variables. Factors that were significantly different between Blacks and Whites at baseline via bivariable statistical tests were included as covariates.

RESULTS

In the general US population, there are approximately 5 times fewer Blacks than Whites. In the present study, 1.5 million HIV/AIDS hospital discharges were identified and Blacks were 6 times more likely to be hospitalized than Whites. Notably, Blacks had higher rates of substance use (30% vs. 24%; P < 0.001), opportunistic infections (27% vs. 26%; P < 0.001) and cocaine use (13% vs. 5%; P < 0.001). Conversely, fewer Blacks were co-infected with hepatitis C virus (8% vs. 12%; P < 0.001). Hepatitis B virus was relatively infrequent (3% for both groups). Crude mortality rates were similar for both cohorts (5%); however, a greater proportion of Blacks had a LOS > 10 days (21% vs. 19%; P < 0.001). Black race, in the presence of comorbidities, was correlated with a higher odds of LOS > 10 days (OR, 95% CI = 1.20 [1.10-1.30]), but was not significantly correlated with a higher odds of mortality (OR, 95% CI = 1.07 [0.93-1.25]).

CONCLUSION

Black race is a predictor of LOS > 10 days, but not mortality, among HIV/AIDS patients admitted to US hospitals. It is possible that racial disparities in hospital outcomes may be closing with time.

HIV prevention for black men who have sex with men in the United States

The HIV/AIDS epidemic has exacted a devastating toll upon Black men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States, and there is a tremendous need to escalate HIV-prevention efforts for this population. The social context in which Black MSM experience the impact of racism and heterosexism strongly affects their risk for HIV infection; thus, HIV-prevention research focused on Black MSM should focus on contextual and structural factors. There is a pronounced lack of community-level HIV-intervention research for Black MSM, but effective preliminary strategies involve adapting existing effective models and tailoring them to the needs of Black MSM. Future research should develop new, innovative approaches, especially structural interventions, that are specifically targeted toward HIV prevention among Black MSM.

Drug use and high-risk sexual behaviors among african american men who have sex with men and men who have sex with women

OBJECTIVES

We investigated covariates related to risky sexual behaviors among young African American men enrolled at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

METHODS

Analyses were based on data gathered from 1837 male freshmen enrolled at 34 HBCUs who participated in the 2001 HBCU Substance Use Survey. The covariates of risky sexual behavior assessed included condom nonuse, engaging in sexual activity with multiple partners, and history of a sexually transmitted disease.

RESULTS

Young Black men who had sex with men were more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors than were young men who had sex with women. Two additional factors, early onset of sexual activity and consumption of alcohol or drugs before sexual activity, were independently associated with modestly higher odds of sexual risk behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS

Services focusing on prevention of sexually transmitted diseases should be provided to all male college students, regardless of the gender of their sexual partners. Such a general approach should also address drug and alcohol use before sexual activity.

Learning from successful interventions: A culturally congruent HIV risk-reduction intervention for African American men who have sex with men and women

Few HIV prevention interventions have been developed for African American men who have sex with men or who have sex with both men and women. Many interventions neglect the historical, structural or institutional, and sociocultural factors that hinder or support risk reduction in this high-risk group. We examined ways to incorporate these factors into Men of African American Legacy Empowering Self, a culturally congruent HIV intervention targeting African American men who have sex with men and women. We also studied how to apply key elements from successful interventions to future efforts. These elements include having gender specificity, a target population, a theoretical foundation, cultural and historical congruence, skill-building components, and well-defined goals.

Perceived condom norms and HIV risks among social and sexual networks of young African American men who have sex with men

The association between condom norms and unprotected sexual intercourse was examined within social and sexual networks of young African American men who have sex with men (MSM) in an HIV epicenter of the southern United States. We used a chain-link design to recruit 158 young African American men: 95 initial participants, 56 contacts of participants (alters) and 7 contacts of alters. Men in the high-risk group, compared with those in the no-risk group, perceived significantly lower approval concerning condom use in their social and sexual networks. Also, 100 participants could be connected to each other in 86 dyads of social and sexual networks. Within these dyads, men perceived that their friends and acquaintances approved for them to use condoms but that their friends and acquaintances did not use condoms themselves. Low HIV risk behavior appears associated with perceived social norms that support one's use of condoms, even when perceived norms do not support condom use by network members themselves.

A dynamic-ecological model of identity formation and conflict among bisexually-behaving African-American men

Understanding how ethnic, sexual, and masculine (ESM) identities form and possibly conflict among African-American men may be important to consider in explaining bisexual behavior in this population. It is proposed that the bisexual behavior among African-American who are primarily sexually attracted to other men may be a function of conflicting ESM identities. Comprehensively understanding the formation and conflict of ESM identities requires an examination of individuals, social contexts, and interactions between individuals and contexts. The current article presents a dynamic-ecological model of identity formation and conflict among ethnic minority men who have sex with men and uses the model to demonstrate how bisexual behavior among African-American men may be examined.

Researching special populations: retention of Latino gay and bisexual men and transgender persons in longitudinal health research

Few studies have sought to assess predictors of retention of racial/ethnic or sexual minorities in longitudinal health research. The purpose of this study is to investigate predictors of retention of Latino gay and bisexual men and transgender (GBT) research participants after the baseline interview. Data come from a sample of 643 Latino GBT individuals in two cities (Chicago and San Francisco). We assessed potential predictors of retention (operationalized as successful re-contact) using binary logistic regression of retention on five factors (sociodemographic/health, residential stability, acculturation/attachment to the United States, gay community attachment/stigmatization and research process/design). Our overall follow-up rate was 83 and 80% at 3 and 6 months, respectively. We found that traditional factors (e.g. education, income) were not associated with retention among Latino GBT. The strongest predictors of successful retention were the number of pieces of contact information provided by participants and city of residence (San Francisco). Furthermore, successful methods of contact (i.e. telephone, email) varied by city. We conclude that a largely immigrant urban population of Latino GBT individuals can be successfully followed in longitudinal research. The strong relationship between study design variables and successful retention indicates that collection of thorough contact information is vital to successful follow-up with this population.

HIV infection, sexual risk behavior, and substance use among Latino gay and bisexual men and transgender persons

OBJECTIVES

We examined HIV prevalence and the socioeconomic correlates of HIV infection, sexual risk behaviors, and substance use among Latino gay and bisexual men and transgender persons in Chicago and San Francisco.

METHODS

Data were collected from a sample of 643 individuals (Chicago: n=320; San Francisco: n=323) through respondent-driven sampling and computer-assisted self-administered interviews.

RESULTS

HIV prevalence in San Francisco (0.325; 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.260, 0.393) was higher than in Chicago (0.112; 95% CI=0.079, 0.163). In San Francisco, HIV prevalence was higher among US-born residents than among those born outside the country; in Chicago, the opposite was true. Heavy use of alcohol was prevalent, especially in Chicago (0.368; 95% CI=0.309, 0.432; San Francisco: 0.154; 95% CI=0.116, 0.192). Drug use and more education were positively correlated and greater age was negatively correlated with unprotected anal intercourse.

CONCLUSIONS

Heavy alcohol drinking and use of drugs remain a significant public health problem in this population. Drug use was more closely linked to HIV sexual risk behaviors than was heavy drinking.

Sexual transmission risk behavior reported among behaviorally bisexual HIV-positive injection drug-using men

BACKGROUND

Few research studies have examined the HIV transmission risk behaviors of HIV-positive injection drug users (IDUs) who are men who have sex with men and women (MSMW).

METHODS

We compared unprotected vaginal or anal sex with an HIV-negative or unknown (UNK) status sexual partner of MSMW (n=118) with men who have sex exclusively with women (MSW; n=469) and men who have sex exclusively with men (MSM; n=90) using baseline information from the Intervention for Seropositive Injectors-Research and Evaluation (INSPIRE) study, a 4-city randomized controlled trial.

RESULTS

MSMW were twice as likely to report unprotected vaginal sex (P<0.001) and 3 times as likely to report unprotected anal sex with an HIV-negative/UNK status female partner (P<0.001) as MSW. MSMW did not differ in their report of unprotected insertive anal sex and were half as likely to report unprotected receptive anal sex with HIV-negative/UNK status men (P=0.02) as MSM. MSMW were 2 times as likely to report engaging in transactional sex (buying or selling sex in exchange for money, drugs, or housing) than MSM or MSW (81%, 43%, and 36%, respectively; P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Further research is needed to understand the contexts of unprotected sex among HIV-positive injection drug-using MSMW. Prevention programs should target the unique prevention needs of this population, particularly their risk with female partners.

Men who have sex with men: estimated population sizes and mortality rates by race/ethnicity, Miami-Dade County, Florida

BACKGROUND

Estimated numbers of men who have sex with men (MSM) by race/ethnicity and mortality rates among such MSM with HIV/AIDS are unavailable. This hampers efficient targeting of HIV/AIDS prevention and care resources.

METHODS

An existing estimation methodology was adapted to develop MSM population estimates by race/ethnicity for Miami-Dade County, Florida. We ascertained and characterized deaths that occurred during 2003 to 2005 among MSM HIV/AIDS cases, matching HIV/AIDS surveillance and vital statistics registries. We calculated estimated average annual racial/ethnic-specific mortality rates and rate ratios (RRs) among MSM HIV/AIDS cases.

RESULTS

An estimated 63,020 men aged > or =18 years in the county are MSM (7.5% of all men aged > or =18 years; point estimate). Among 754 MSM HIV/AIDS deaths, point-estimate mortality rates per 100,000 MSM were higher for blacks (733.5) than for whites (229.2) (P < 0.01) and Hispanics (360.5) (P < 0.01). The best estimate of the black/white MSM mortality RR among HIV/AIDS cases was 3.20:1 (P < 0.01); for Hispanic/white MSM, it was 1.57:1 (P < 0.01). Sensitivity analyses suggested the estimates were reasonably robust to biases that we examined.

CONCLUSIONS

Black and Hispanic MSM were more likely to die with HIV/AIDS than white MSM. Plausible racial/ethnic-specific MSM population and mortality rate estimates can inform effective HIV/AIDS prevention efforts and program planning.

Black-White mortality from HIV in the United States before and after introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy in 1996

OBJECTIVES

We sought to describe Black-White differences in HIV disease mortality before and after the introduction of highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART).

METHODS

Black-White mortality from HIV is described for the nation as a whole. We performed regression analyses to predict county-level mortality for Black men aged 25-84 years and the corresponding Black:White male mortality ratios (disparities) in 140 counties with reliable Black mortality for 1999-2002.

RESULTS

National Black-White disparities widened significantly after the introduction of HAART, especially among women and the elderly. In county regression analyses, contextual socioeconomic status (SES) was not a significant predictor of Black:White mortality rate ratio after we controlled for percentage of the population who were Black and percentage of the population who were Hispanic, and neither contextual SES nor race/ethnicity were significant predictors after we controlled for pre-HAART mortality. Contextual SES, race, and pre-HAART mortality were all significant and independent predictors of mortality among Black men.

CONCLUSIONS

Although nearly all segments of the Black population experienced widened post-HAART disparities, disparities were not inevitable and tended to reflect pre-HAART levels. Public health policymakers should consider the hypothesis of unequal diffusion of the HAART innovation, with place effects rendering some communities more vulnerable than others to this potential problem.

Explaining disparities in HIV infection among black and white men who have sex with men: a meta-analysis of HIV risk behaviors

OBJECTIVE

To identify factors that contribute to the racial disparity in HIV prevalence between black and white men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search of electronic databases, online bibliographies, and publication reference lists yielded 53 quantitative studies of MSM published between 1980 and 2006 that stratified HIV risk behaviors by race. Meta-analyses were performed to compare HIV risks between black and white MSM across studies.

RESULTS

Compared with white MSM, black MSM reported less overall substance use [odds ratio (OR), 0.71; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.53-0.97], fewer sex partners (OR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.45-0.92), less gay identity (OR, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.17-0.48), and less disclosure of same sex behavior (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.30-0.60). HIV-positive black MSM were less likely than HIV-positive white MSM to report taking antiretroviral medications (OR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.30-0.61). Sexually transmitted diseases were significantly greater among black MSM than white MSM (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.07-2.53). There were no statistically significant differences by race in reported unprotected anal intercourse, commercial sex work, sex with a known HIV-positive partner, or HIV testing history.

CONCLUSIONS

Behavioral risk factors for HIV infection do not explain elevated HIV rates among black MSM. Continued emphasis on risk behaviors will have only limited impact on the disproportionate rates of HIV infection among black MSM. Future research should focus on the contribution of other factors, such as social networks, to explain racial disparities in HIV infection rates.

The social epidemiology of HIV transmission among African American women who use drugs and their social network members

Despite 15 years of prevention efforts, recent increases in HIV infection have been documented for Black women in the US. Little is known about the role played by HIV status disclosure in high HIV prevalence communities. 180 Black women who used drugs in the past 30 days were recruited between May 2002 and May 2004 in New York City. Women were administered a structured network questionnaire and HIV serotested. Risk practices, HIV status disclosure within networks and mixing patterns by known HIV status are examined. Most (85%) women had used crack in the past 30 days; 48 (27%) had injected drugs, 65 (36%) reported anal sex, and 99 (55%) reported sex work at some time. Forty (22%) women were HIV-seropositive; 29 (16%) knew their seropositive status. Of high risk individual behaviours, only a history of sex work was associated with an HIV-seropositive status [(aOR=3.0; 95%CI: 1.3-7.3), p=.01]. Few (7%) of 600 network members disclosed an HIV positive status, although 73% were sex or drug use partners. Women who knew themselves to be HIV-infected were more likely than other women to report HIV-infected network members [(OR=1.5; 95%CI: 1.1-6.4), p=.03]. However, only 51% of network members disclosed an HIV status and women disclosed to 50% of their network members. In a context of high background HIV prevalence and low levels of HIV status disclosure, serodiscordant mixing patterns likely facilitate transmission.

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

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

Is there a race-based disparity in the survival of veterans with HIV?

BACKGROUND

Disparities in survival for black patients with HIV in the United States have been reported. The VA is an equal access health care system.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether such disparities are present in the VA health care system.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study using national VA administrative databases.

PATIENTS

Two thousand three hundred and four white and 3,641 black HIV-infected patients first hospitalized for HIV between October 1, 1996 and September 30, 2000.

MEASUREMENTS

Thirty-day mortality after first hospitalization with HIV, and subsequent long-term survival. Follow-up ended at death or September 30, 2002. Data were adjusted for age, sex, HIV disease severity, non-HIV-related comorbidities, primary discharge diagnosis, hepatitis C status, and facility effects.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 3.2 years. Overall survival was similar for black patients compared with white patients (adjusted hazard ratio 1.09, P=.09). Hospital mortality was 7.0% for black and 6.4% for white patients (P=.35). Adjusted hospital mortality for black patients was similar to that of white patients (odds ratio 1.20, P=.10). Long-term survival after hospitalization did not significantly differ by race (adjusted hazard ratio 1.07, P=.21, for black patients compared with white patients).

CONCLUSIONS

Survival during and after first hospitalization with HIV in the VA did not significantly differ for white and black patients, possibly indicating similar effectiveness of care for HIV. Further research is needed to understand the reasons for the lack of disparities for VA patients with HIV and whether the VA's results could be replicated.

Aboriginal status is a prognostic factor for mortality among antiretroviral naïve HIV-positive individuals first initiating HAART

Background

Although the impact of Aboriginal status on HIV incidence, HIV disease progression, and access to treatment has been investigated previously, little is known about the relationship between Aboriginal ethnicity and outcomes associated with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). We undertook the present analysis to determine if Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal persons respond differently to HAART by measuring HIV plasma viral load response, CD4 cell response and time to all-cause mortality.

Methods

A population-based analysis of a cohort of antiretroviral therapy naïve HIV-positive Aboriginal men and women 18 years or older in British Columbia, Canada. Participants were antiretroviral therapy naïve, initiated triple combination therapy between August 1, 1996 and September 30, 1999. Participants had to complete a baseline questionnaire as well as have at least two follow-up CD4 and HIV plasma viral load measures. The primary endpoints were CD4 and HIV plasma viral load response and all cause mortality. Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine the association between Aboriginal status and CD4 cell response, HIV plasma viral load response and all-cause mortality while controlling for several confounder variables.

Results

A total of 622 participants met the study criteria. Aboriginal status was significantly associated with no AIDS diagnosis at baseline (p = 0.0296), having protease inhibitor in the first therapy (p = 0.0209), lower baseline HIV plasma viral load (p < 0.001), less experienced HIV physicians (P = 0.0133), history of IDU (p < 0.001), not completing high school (p = 0.0046), and an income of less than $10,000 per year (p = 0.0115). Cox proportional hazards models controlling for clinical characteristics found that Aboriginal status had an increased hazard of mortality (HR = 3.12, 95% CI: 1.77–5.48) but did not with HIV plasma viral load response (HR = 1.15, 95% CI: 0.89–1.48) or CD4 cell response (HR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.73–1.23).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that HIV-infected Aboriginal persons accessing HAART had similar HIV treatment response as non-Aboriginal persons but have a shorter survival. This study highlights the need for continued research on medical interventions and behavioural changes among HIV-infected Aboriginal and other marginalized populations.

AIDS mortality before and after the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy: does it vary with socioeconomic group in a country with a National Health System?

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to determine whether socioeconomic AIDS mortality inequalities before and after the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) have increased or decreased in a Spanish city where HAART is free.

METHODS

The study used a trend design, including all Barcelona residents older than 19 years of age. All AIDS deaths, which occurred among these residents between 1991 and 2001 were included. The variables studied were age, sex, socioeconomic (SES) group and HIV transmission group. AIDS age-standardized mortality rates for each year were estimated. Poisson regression models were fitted to obtain the relative risk (RR) of AIDS death for each socioeconomic group with respect to the reference group.

RESULTS

AIDS mortality increased up until 1995 and subsequently decreased due to the introduction of HAART. The increase in AIDS mortality was greater in the lowest SES group, which had higher rates and a RR of dying larger than that of the highest SES group, fact that remained fairly stable over the whole period. A similar pattern was observed in intravenous drug users. In the homosexual transmission group, rates for the lowest SES group were higher for the whole period and increased until 1996, while rates for the other SES groups were lower and decreased over the entire period.

CONCLUSIONS

The fact that inequalities in AIDS mortality by SES group remained fairly stable for the whole period suggests that perhaps access to HAART, or adherence, is lower than desirable, in people of lower SES groups. These results ought to be taken into account when implementing treatment and prevention strategies.

The population effectiveness of highly active antiretroviral therapy: Are good drugs good enough?

Despite the success of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) at reducing mortality from HIV infection, there is evidence that it is not reaching the all of the population that needs it, even in the developed world. To be maximally effective at the population level, all persons with HIV infection must be diagnosed; those persons with an indication for HAART must enter care, must receive HAART, and then must adhere to appointments and, finally, HAART itself. There is considerable evidence that significant portions of the population infected with HIV have not completed all of these steps of HIV care even in the developed world. Although new medications to treat HIV are certainly needed, significant improvements in viral, immunologic, and clinical outcomes could be achieved from improving timely diagnosis, access to HAART, and adherence to appointments, as well as adherence to HAART.

Effect of sociodemographic, clinical-prophylactic and therapeutic procedures on survival of AIDS patients assisted in a Brazilian outpatient clinic

The Brazilian AIDS Program offers free and universal access to antiretroviral therapy. This study investigates the influence of sociodemographic, clinical-prophylactic and therapeutic factors on survival, after AIDS diagnosis, in an open cohort of 1,420 patients assisted in a university hospital in the city of Rio de Janeiro (1995 _ 2002). Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the effect of variables in the three dimensions studied. The overall survival time of the upper quartile was 24 months (CI95%= 20.5-27.5), increasing from 14 months, in 1995, to 46 months, in 1998. We found a protective effect of heterosexual behavior against death that could be attributed to the increasing female-to-male sex ratio in the cohort, which coincided with the time of therapy introduction. Low schooling, hospital admission and lack of follow-up were identified as risk factors for death; PCP and Toxoplasmosis prophylaxis were protective. The number of attempts required to consolidate the antiretroviral therapy showed no significant effect on survival. The full model, which includes the number of antiretroviral drugs in the regimen, confirmed the triple therapy as the best regimen. This study brings important information for designing guidelines to deal with different aspects related to the practical management of patients and their behavior, thus contributing to the success of the program of free access to antiretroviral therapy implemented in Brazil.

HIV Prevention Research: Are We Meeting the Needs of African American Men Who Have Sex With Men?

Two decades of HIV prevention efforts with men who have sex with men (MSM) have not eliminated the risk of new HIV infections in this vulnerable population. Indeed, current incidence rates in African American MSM are similar to those usually only seen in developing countries. A review of the existing literature suggests that the prevention research agenda for Black MSM could benefit from reframing conceptualization of risk as a function of individual properties to a broad consideration of social and interpersonal determinants. Studies that investigate dyadic and social-level influences on African American MSM's relationships are needed. This includes research explicating the diversity existing within the categorizations of Black MSM with respect to perceived identity (gay, bisexual, "men on the down low," "homo thugz"), constructions of masculinity, sexual scripts, sources of social support, and perceived norms and expectations. Recommendations are proposed for a research agenda focusing on linkages between interpersonal and social-structural determinants of HIV risk.