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Jennings Mayo-Wilson L, Coleman Lewis J, MacCarthy S, Linnemayr S. Assessing behavioral economic biases among young adults who have increased likelihood of acquiring HIV: a mixed methods study in Baltimore, Maryland. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:25. [PMID: 37150823 PMCID: PMC10165802 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00521-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Behavioral economic (BE) biases have been studied in the context of numerous health conditions, yet are understudied in the field of HIV prevention. This aim of this study was to quantify the prevalence of four common BE biases-present bias, information salience, overoptimism, and loss aversion-relating to condom use and HIV testing in economically-vulnerable young adults who had increased likelihood of acquiring HIV. We also qualitatively examined participants' perceptions of these biases. METHODS 43 participants were enrolled in the study. Data were collected via interviews using a quantitative survey instrument embedded with qualitative questions to characterize responses. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using descriptive statistics and deductive-inductive content analyses. RESULTS 56% of participants were present-biased, disproportionately discounting future rewards for smaller immediate rewards. 51% stated they were more likely to spend than save given financial need. Present-bias relating to condom use was lower with 28% reporting they would engage in condomless sex rather than wait one day to access condoms. Most participants (72%) were willing to wait for condom-supported sex given the risk. Only 35% knew someone living with HIV, but 67% knew someone who had taken an HIV test, and 74% said they often think about preventing HIV (e.g., high salience). Yet, 47% reported optimistically planning for condom use, HIV discussions with partners, or testing but failing to stick to their decision. Most (98%) were also averse (b = 9.4, SD ±.9) to losing their HIV-negative status. Qualitative reasons for sub-optimal condom or testing choices were having already waited to find a sex partner, feeling awkward, having fear, or not remembering one's plan in the moment. Optimal decisions were attributed qualitatively to self-protective thoughts, establishing routine care, standing on one's own, and thinking of someone adversely impacted by HIV. 44% of participants preferred delayed monetary awards (e.g., future-biased), attributed qualitatively to fears of spending immediate money unwisely or needing time to plan. CONCLUSION Mixed methods BE assessments may be a valuable tool in understanding factors contributing to optimal and sub-optimal HIV prevention decisions. Future HIV prevention interventions may benefit from integrating savings products, loss framing, commitment contracts, cues, or incentives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Department of Health Behavior, Department of Maternal and Child Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, 310 Rosenau Hall CB #7400, 135 Dauer Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Jessica Coleman Lewis
- Department of International Health, Social and Behavioral Interventions Program, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Sarah MacCarthy
- Department of Health Behavior, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health, 1665 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Fasciana T, Capra G, Di Carlo P, Calà C, Vella M, Pistone G, Colomba C, Giammanco A. Socio-Demographic Characteristics and Sexual Behavioral Factors of Patients with Sexually Transmitted Infections Attending a Hospital in Southern Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18094722. [PMID: 33925258 PMCID: PMC8125464 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a serious global health problem. In Italy, data describing the vulnerability to STIs of specific sexual minorities and the influence of sociodemographic and behavioral determinants are limited, as most infections are not subject to mandatory notification. This retrospective study describes the sociodemographic profile and main sexual behaviors of patients attending a hospital in Palermo (Sicily, Italy) from January 2018 to March 2019 as predictors of STI risk. Patients were divided in subgroups: men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM), men-who-have-sex-with-women (MSW), bisexual men and females. Data were obtained through an anonymous questionnaire. Patients were tested for chlamydia, syphilis, Mycoplasma genitalium infection, genital herpes and HPV infection. A total of 294 subjects with STIs (male/female ratio about 2:1) were screened. Of the total sample, 79.6% of patients were Italian. MSM accounted for 34.3%, MSW for 29.6%, bisexual men for 5.8% and females for 30.3%. A total of 44.5% of patients had a high education level, 42.5% reported irregular use of condoms, 20.7% reported having had 5-10 partners in the six months prior to the visit and 32.9% were HIV-positive. HPV infection and syphilis were the most prevalent STIs. Conclusions: The most common profile of patients attending our clinic was that of an adult, Italian man with a high level of education, poor use of condoms and a high number of partners. MSM had the highest sex-behavior-related risk for STIs. In addition, our results suggest that all STD teams need to implement counselling topics and recommendations to share with patients, as well as tips on how to approach sexual health education/counselling, thereby promoting patient-centered approaches and educational programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Fasciana
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (P.D.C.); (C.C.); (G.P.); (C.C.); (A.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-3882422122
| | - Giuseppina Capra
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (P.D.C.); (C.C.); (G.P.); (C.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Paola Di Carlo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (P.D.C.); (C.C.); (G.P.); (C.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Cinzia Calà
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (P.D.C.); (C.C.); (G.P.); (C.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Marco Vella
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences, Section of Urology, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Pistone
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (P.D.C.); (C.C.); (G.P.); (C.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Claudia Colomba
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (P.D.C.); (C.C.); (G.P.); (C.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Anna Giammanco
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (P.D.C.); (C.C.); (G.P.); (C.C.); (A.G.)
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Li H, Wei R, Ong JJ, Kim E, Weinstein TL, Ning X, Ma W. Examining potential effects of non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) on sexual behaviors of Chinese men who have sex with men: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:221. [PMID: 33499839 PMCID: PMC7839183 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10283-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In China, non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) is not a conventional service yet and nPEP related studies are very few. Recently, China's 13th Five Year Action Plan for HIV/AIDS Containment and Prevention examines the feasibility of including nPEP as one of the national strategies for HIV prevention. However, there is a concern that nPEP use might exacerbate high-risk sexual activities. In order to facilitate a research-based policy making of routinizing nPEP services, the current study examined potential effects of nPEP use on condom use and number of sexual partners among Chinese men who have sex with men (MSM) . METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted in two cities of China in November and December 2018. Descriptive analyses of participants' sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics were conducted using SPSS 24.0. Mplus 7.4 was used to conduct confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. RESULTS The sample included 419 Chinese MSM with a mean age of 28.04 (SD = 9.71). Participants reported more positive anticipation of their own behaviors than other MSM's behaviors regarding condom use and number of sexual partners if nPEP were to be routinized in China. About 60% of participants reported discrepancies between anticipated individual and population behaviors as a potential result of routinization of nPEP services. Anticipated individual behavioral change was positively related to age and duration of residence in the current city, and negatively related to education. Anticipated population behavioral change was positively related to age. Anticipated behavioral discrepancy was positively related to being ethnic minority and never married. CONCLUSIONS These findings identify a high-risk subgroup of MSM, who reported they would use condoms less and/or have more sexual partners when nPEP becomes available. This subgroup of MSM might benefit from targeted health interventions. Moreover, there is a clear discrepancy between anticipated individual and population behavioral changes regarding future routinization of nPEP services, suggesting incorporating nPEP services as a means of community development for MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haochu Li
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China.
| | - Ran Wei
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jason J Ong
- Monash University Central Clinical School, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Eunsook Kim
- Department of Educational and Psychological Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620-9951, USA
| | - Traci L Weinstein
- Department of Psychology, Rhode Island College, Providence, RI, 02908-1924, USA
| | - Xiaofu Ning
- Peking University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Wei Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China.
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Songtaweesin WN, Kawichai S, Phanuphak N, Cressey TR, Wongharn P, Saisaengjan C, Chinbunchorn T, Janyam S, Linjongrat D, Puthanakit T. Youth-friendly services and a mobile phone application to promote adherence to pre-exposure prophylaxis among adolescent men who have sex with men and transgender women at-risk for HIV in Thailand: a randomized control trial. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23 Suppl 5:e25564. [PMID: 32869511 PMCID: PMC7459171 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Strategies are needed to curb the increasing HIV incidence in young men who have sex with men (YMSM) and transgender women (YTGW) worldwide. We assessed the impact of youth-friendly services (YFS) and a mobile phone application (app) on adherence to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in YMSM and YTGW in Thailand. METHODS A randomized control trial was conducted in YMSM and YTGW aged 15 to 19 years. Participants were provided daily oral tenofovir disoproxil fumerate/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC), condoms and randomized to receive either YFS or YFS plus a PrEP app (YFS + APP), whose features included self-assessment of HIV acquisition risk, point rewards and reminders for PrEP and clinic appointments. Clinic visits occurred at zero, one, three and six months and telephone contact at two, four and five months. HIV testing was performed at every clinic visit. PrEP adherence was evaluated with intracellular tenofovir diphosphate (TFV-DP) concentrations in dried blood spot (DBS) samples at months 3 and 6. The primary endpoint assessed was "PrEP adherence" defined as TFV-DP DBS concentrations ≥700 fmol/punch (equivalent to ≥4 doses of TDF/week). RESULTS Between March 2018 and June 2019, 489 adolescents were screened at three centres in Bangkok. Twenty-seven (6%) adolescents tested positive for HIV and 200 (41%) adolescents participated in the study. Of these, 147 were YMSM (74%) and 53 YTGW (26%). At baseline, median age was 18 years (IQR 17 to 19), 66% reported inconsistent condom use in the past month. Sexually transmitted infection prevalence was 23%. Retention at six months was 73%. In the YFS + APP arm, median app use duration was three months (IQR 1 to 5). PrEP adherence at month 3 was 51% in YFS and 54% in YFS + APP (p-value 0.64) and at month 6 was 44% in YFS and 49% in YFS + APP (p-value 0.54). No HIV seroconversions occurred during 75 person years of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Youth-friendly PrEP services enabled good adherence among half of adolescent PrEP users. However, the mobile phone application tested did not provide additional PrEP adherence benefit in this randomized trial. Adolescent risk behaviours are dynamic and require adaptive programmes that focus on "prevention-effective adherence."
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Affiliation(s)
- Wipaporn Natalie Songtaweesin
- Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and VaccinesFaculty of MedicineChulalongkorn UniversityBangkokThailand
| | - Surinda Kawichai
- Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and VaccinesFaculty of MedicineChulalongkorn UniversityBangkokThailand
| | | | - Tim R Cressey
- PHPT/IRD UMI 174Faculty of Associated Medical SciencesChiang Mai UniversityChiang MaiThailand
- Department of Immunology & Infectious DiseasesHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthBostonMAUSA
- Department of Molecular & Clinical PharmacologyUniversity of LiverpoolLiverpoolUnited Kingdom
| | - Prissana Wongharn
- Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and VaccinesFaculty of MedicineChulalongkorn UniversityBangkokThailand
| | - Chutima Saisaengjan
- Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and VaccinesFaculty of MedicineChulalongkorn UniversityBangkokThailand
| | | | - Surang Janyam
- The Service Workers IN Group FoundationBangkokThailand
| | | | - Thanyawee Puthanakit
- Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and VaccinesFaculty of MedicineChulalongkorn UniversityBangkokThailand
- Department of PediatricsFaculty of MedicineChulalongkorn UniversityBangkokThailand
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Wang Z, Yuan T, Fan S, Qian HZ, Li P, Zhan Y, Li H, Zou H. HIV Nonoccupational Postexposure Prophylaxis Among Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Global Data. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2020; 34:193-204. [PMID: 32396477 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2019.0313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
HIV nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis (nPEP) has been prescribed to men who have sex with men (MSM) for decades, but the global situation of nPEP implementation among this population remains unclear. To understand nPEP awareness, uptake, and factors associated with uptake among MSM, we searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for studies reporting nPEP implementation among MSM published before May 19, 2019. We estimated pooled rates and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of awareness, uptake using a random-effects model. We identified 74 studies: 3 studies (4.1%) from upper-middle-income regions and 71 (95.9%) from high-income regions. The pooled rate of nPEP awareness and uptake was 51.6% (95% CI 40.6-62.5%) and 6.0% (5.0-7.1%), respectively. Pooled uptake rate was higher in upper-middle-income regions [8.9% (7.8-10.0%)] than in high-income regions [5.8% (4.8-6.9%)]. Unprotected anal sex was the most common exposure (range: 55.0-98.6%, median: 62.9%). Pooled completion of nPEP was 86.9% (79.5-92.8%). Of 19,546 MSM prescribed nPEP, 500 HIV seroconversions (2.6%) were observed. Having risky sexual behaviors and history of sexually transmitted infections were associated with higher nPEP uptake, whereas insufficient knowledge, underestimated risk of exposure to HIV, lack of accessibility, and social stigma might hinder nPEP uptake. Awareness and uptake of nPEP among MSM worldwide are low. Further efforts are needed to combat barriers to access nPEP, including improving accessibility and reducing stigma. Seroconversions post-nPEP uptake suggest that joint prevention precautions aside from nPEP are needed for high-risk MSM. More evidence from low-income and middle-income regions is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Wang
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tanwei Yuan
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Song Fan
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Han-zhu Qian
- School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Peiyang Li
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuewei Zhan
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hui Li
- Shizhong District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, China
| | - Huachun Zou
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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Refugio ON, Roberts C, West R, Klausner JD. Sexually transmissible infection control programs for men who have sex with men - what will they look like in 2020? Sex Health 2019; 14:126-132. [PMID: 27444895 DOI: 10.1071/sh16038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The resurgence of sexually transmissible infections among men who have sex with men is a concern for sexual health. Traditional strategies have relied on the promotion of condom use, regular testing, treatment, and partner management. Future sexually transmissible infection control programs must combine current prevention methods with novel approaches that target the providers, patients, and mechanisms of health care delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver N Refugio
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Chelsea Roberts
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Richard West
- Directorate of Sexual Health and HIV, Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust, 369 Fulham Road, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Jeffrey D Klausner
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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HIV-Infected Young Men Demonstrate Appropriate Risk Perceptions and Beliefs about Safer Sexual Behaviors after Human Papillomavirus Vaccination. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:1826-1834. [PMID: 28220313 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1710-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify risk perceptions after human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among HIV-infected young men who have sex with men. On average, participants appropriately perceived themselves to be at lower than neutral risk for HPV (mean subscale score 4.2/10), at higher than neutral risk for other sexually transmitted infections (7.0/10), and that safer sexual behaviors were still important (8.5/10). Higher perceived risk of HPV was associated with African-American race (p = .03); higher perceived risk of other sexually transmitted infections with White race (p = .01) and higher knowledge about HPV (p = .001); and higher perceived need for safer sexual behaviors with consistent condom use (p = .02). The study provides reassuring data that HIV-infected young men who have sex with men generally have appropriate risk perceptions and believe that safer sexual behaviors after vaccination are still important. These findings mirror the results of studies in HIV-infected young women and HIV-uninfected adolescents.
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Surkan PJ, Li Y, Jacobson LP, Cox C, Silvestre A, Gorbach P, Teplin L, Plankey M. Unsafe Sexual Behavior Among Gay/Bisexual Men in the Era of Combination Antiretroviral Therapy (cART). AIDS Behav 2017; 21:2874-2885. [PMID: 27990578 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1614-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the association between psychosocial determinants of unprotected receptive anal intercourse (URAI) and unprotected insertive anal intercourse (UIAI). Data from 417 HIV positive men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study from April 1999 to March 2012 were analyzed and adjusted odds were calculated. It was found that 66% (n = 277) and 72% (n = 299) reported any UIAI or URAI over follow-up, respectively. Cumulative cART-years (median = 5.30 years) was associated with 33 and 47% increases in UIAI and URAI, respectively. Not having reduced concern about HIV transmission (UIAI: OR 0.37, p-value = 0.0004; URAI: OR 0.57, p-value = 0.04), increased safe sex fatigue (UIAI: OR 2.32, 95% p-value = 0.0002; URAI: OR 1.94, p-value = 0.003), and sexual sensation seeking (UIAI: OR 1.76, p-value = 0.002; URAI: OR 1.56, p-value = 0.02) were associated with UIAI and URAI. Serosorting was associated with UIAI (OR 6.11, p-value < 0.0001) and URAI (OR 6.80, p-value < 0.0001). Findings suggest that negative attitudes about HIV transmission are sustained among older men who have sex with men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela J Surkan
- Social and Behavioral Intervention Program, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe St., Room E5523, Baltimore, MD, 21205-2179, USA.
| | - Ying Li
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lisa P Jacobson
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Christopher Cox
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anthony Silvestre
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Pamina Gorbach
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Epidemiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Linda Teplin
- Health Disparities and Public Policy, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michael Plankey
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
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Khumsaen N, Stephenson R. Beliefs and Perception About HIV/AIDS, Self-Efficacy, and HIV Sexual Risk Behaviors Among Young Thai Men Who Have Sex With Men. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2017; 29:175-190. [PMID: 28467158 PMCID: PMC6477019 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2017.29.2.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the relationships of HIV/AIDS beliefs, self-efficacy for AIDS preventive behaviors, perception of HIV as a chronic disease, and HIV risk behaviors among young Thai men who have sex with men. Participants were recruited for a self-administered anonymous survey through Facebook. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with each of four HIV risk behavior outcomes. Factors associated with sexual risk behaviors included age (18 and 21 years), having a current regular male partner, self-efficacy for AIDS preventive behaviors (self-efficacy in refusing sexual intercourse, self-efficacy in questioning potential sex partners, and self-efficacy in condom use), AIDS health belief (perceived susceptibility to HIV/AIDS, perceived severity of HIV/AIDS, perceived barriers to condom use, and cues to action for HIV/AIDS prevention), and perception of HIV/AIDS as a chronic disease (perceived HIV sero-status disclosure). Knowledge generated from this study has the potential to inform prevention messages for young Thai MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natawan Khumsaen
- The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
- Boromarajonani College of Nursing, Suphanburi, Thailand
- Corresponding author’s
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, 400 North Ingalls, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
- The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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Suominen T, Heikkinen T, Pakarinen M, Sepponen AM, Kylmä J. Knowledge of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases among men who have sex with men in Finland. BMC Infect Dis 2017; 17:121. [PMID: 28166738 PMCID: PMC5295182 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-017-2203-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study was to describe what is known about HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases, infection transmission routes, care, and sources of information, from the viewpoint of men having sex with men. Methods National data (n = 2,072) was collected from June to August 2010 in Finland as part of a joint internet-based survey conducted in 38 countries (EMIS, European MSM Internet Sex Survey). Results The respondents’ age, place of residence, highest education and employment status were statistically significantly related to how often the respondent sought information on HIV, testing and treatments, and what they knew about infection transmission routes. The respondents’ information seeking behavior was not seen as active regarding HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases. Conclusions We should also consider the possibility of using internet-based interventions, especially in smaller and northern catchment areas, in order to improve the knowledge level of men having sex with men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarja Suominen
- University of Tampere, School of Health Sciences, Tampere, Finland.
| | | | - Marja Pakarinen
- University of Tampere, School of Health Sciences, Tampere, Finland
| | | | - Jari Kylmä
- University of Tampere, School of Health Sciences, Tampere, Finland
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11
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Lin SY, Lachowsky NJ, Hull M, Rich A, Cui Z, Sereda P, Jollimore J, Stephenson K, Thumath M, Montaner J, Roth EA, Hogg RS, Moore DM. Awareness and use of nonoccupational post-exposure prophylaxis among men who have sex with men in Vancouver, Canada. HIV Med 2016; 17:662-73. [PMID: 27477994 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.12369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Nonoccupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) is a strategy to reduce the risk of HIV infection in those with high-risk exposure. This study characterized nPEP awareness among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM) in Metro Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada after a pilot nPEP programme established in 2012. METHODS Momentum Health Study participants were MSM aged ≥16 years recruited via respondent-driven sampling (RDS) who completed a computer-assisted self-interview. Stratifying patients by HIV status, we used multivariable logistic regression with backward selection to identify factors associated with nPEP awareness. All analyses were RDS-adjusted. RESULTS A total of 51.9% (112 of 173) of HIV-positive and 48.5% (272 of 500) of HIV-negative participants had heard of nPEP. Only 3% (five of 106) of HIV-negative participants who reported recent high-risk sex used nPEP. Generally, nPEP awareness was higher for participants who engaged in sexual activities with increased HIV transmission potential. Factors associated with greater awareness among HIV-negative participants included recent alcohol use, higher communal sexual altruism, previous sexually transmitted infection diagnosis, and greater perceived condom use self-efficacy. Other factors associated with greater awareness among HIV-negative participants included white race/ethnicity, gay sexual identity, more formal education, lower personal sexual altruism, and Vancouver residence. Greater nPEP awareness among HIV-positive participants was associated with greater perceived agency to ask sexual partners' HIV status and more frequently reporting doing so, a higher number of lifetime receptive sex partners, and greater access to condoms. CONCLUSIONS Following implementation of an nPEP pilot programme, nPEP awareness among HIV-negative MSM was 51% and use was 3%. These data support the need to expand access to and actively promote nPEP services.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Y Lin
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - N J Lachowsky
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - M Hull
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - A Rich
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Z Cui
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - P Sereda
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - J Jollimore
- Health Initiative for Men, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - M Thumath
- Faculty of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jsg Montaner
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - E A Roth
- Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.,Centre for Addictions Research BC, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - R S Hogg
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - D M Moore
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Mullins TLK, Zimet GD, Rosenthal SL, Morrow C, Ding L, Huang B, Kahn JA. Human papillomavirus vaccine-related risk perceptions and subsequent sexual behaviors and sexually transmitted infections among vaccinated adolescent women. Vaccine 2016; 34:4040-5. [PMID: 27291086 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Revised: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the association between risk perceptions after human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and sexual behaviors and sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnosis over 30months following vaccination. METHODS Participants included 112 sexually experienced girls aged 13-21years who were enrolled at the time of first HPV vaccination and completed ⩾2 of 4 follow-up visits at 2, 6, 18, 30months and including 30months. At each visit, participants completed surveys assessing risk perceptions (perceived need for safer sexual behaviors, perceived risk of STIs other than HPV) and sexual behaviors. STI testing was done at 6, 18, and 30months. Outcomes were condom use at last intercourse with main male partner, number of sexual partners since last study visit, and STI diagnosis. Associations between risk perceptions and sexual behaviors/STIs were examined using generalized linear mixed models. RESULTS Mean age was 17.9years; 88% were Black; 49% had a history of STI at baseline. Scale scores for perceived need for safer sexual behaviors did not change significantly over time. Scale scores for perceived risk of STIs other than HPV significantly changed (p=0.027), indicating that girls perceived themselves to be more at risk of STIs other than HPV over 30months following vaccination. Multivariable models demonstrated that greater perceived need for safer sexual behaviors following vaccination was associated with condom use (p=0.002) but not with number of partners or STI diagnosis. Perceived risk of STIs other than HPV was not associated with the three outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The finding that perceived risk for STIs other than HPV was not associated with subsequent sexual behaviors or STI diagnosis is reassuring. The association between perceived need for safer sexual behaviors and subsequent condom use suggests that the HPV vaccination visit is an important opportunity to reiterate the importance of safer sexual behaviors to sexually experienced girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya L Kowalczyk Mullins
- Division of Adolescent and Transition Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave MLC 4000, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 231 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA.
| | - Gregory D Zimet
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Indiana University, 410 West 10th Street, HS 1001, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Susan L Rosenthal
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Columbia University and New York Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, 622 West 168 Street, Vanderbilt Clinic 4th Floor - Room 402, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Charlene Morrow
- Division of Adolescent and Transition Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave MLC 4000, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Lili Ding
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave MLC 5041, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Bin Huang
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave MLC 5041, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Jessica A Kahn
- Division of Adolescent and Transition Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave MLC 4000, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 231 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
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Kesler MA, Kaul R, Liu J, Loutfy M, Gesink D, Myers T, Remis RS. Actual sexual risk and perceived risk of HIV acquisition among HIV-negative men who have sex with men in Toronto, Canada. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:254. [PMID: 26969463 PMCID: PMC4788863 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-2859-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Theory suggests that perceived human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) risk and actual HIV risk behaviour are cyclical whereby engaging in high risk behaviour can increase perceived risk, which initiates precautionary behaviour that reduces actual risk, and with time reduces perceived risk. While current perceived risk may impact future actual risk, it is less clear how previous actual risk shapes current perceived risk. If individuals do not base their current perceived risk on past behaviour, they lose the protective effect of perceived risk motivating precautionary behaviour. Our goal was to determine the impact of actual risk on perceived risk. Methods Sexually active men who have sex with men (MSM) were recruited at the Maple Leaf Medical Clinic in downtown Toronto from September 2010 to June 2012. Participants completed a socio-behavioural questionnaire using an Audio Computer Assisted Self-Interview (ACASI). Actual HIV risk (primary predictor) was constructed by applying principal component analysis (PCA) to eight sexual risk survey questions and comprised three components which reflected sex with casual partners, sex with HIV-positive regular partners and sex with HIV unknown status regular partners. Perceived HIV risk (outcome) was measured by asking participants what the chances were that they would ever get HIV. Multivariable logistic regression was used to measure the association between actual and perceived HIV risk. Results One hundred and fifty HIV-negative MSM were recruited (median age 44.5 years [IQR 37–50 years]). Twenty percent of MSM perceived their HIV risk to be high. The odds of having a high perceived risk was significantly higher in those with high actual HIV risk indicated by low condom use with an HIV-positive regular partner compared to those with low actual HIV risk indicated by high condom use with an HIV-positive regular partner (Odds Ratio (OR) 18.33, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.65–203.45). Older age was associated with lower perceived risk but only age 40–49 compared to less than 30 was statistically significant (OR 0.12, 95 % CI 0.016–0.86). The odds of having high perceived risk was significantly associated with men who used poppers in the previous 6 months compared to those who did not use poppers (OR 5.64, 95 % CI 1.20–26.48). Conclusions Perceived HIV risk increased significantly as condom use with an HIV-positive regular partner decreased. However, perceived HIV risk was not associated with condom use with casual partners or HIV unknown status regular partners, even though these behaviours could be considered risky. The relationship between perceived and actual risk in HIV studies is complex and has implications on how health care workers address the issue of risky sexual behaviour and perceived risk. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12889-016-2859-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya A Kesler
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Rupert Kaul
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Juan Liu
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mona Loutfy
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Maple Leaf Medical Clinic, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dionne Gesink
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ted Myers
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Robert S Remis
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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14
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Koedijk FD, van Benthem BH, Vrolings EM, Zuilhof W, van der Sande MA. Increasing sexually transmitted infection rates in young men having sex with men in the Netherlands, 2006-2012. Emerg Themes Epidemiol 2014; 11:12. [PMID: 25170341 PMCID: PMC4147385 DOI: 10.1186/1742-7622-11-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 08/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Men having sex with men (MSM) remain the largest high-risk group involved in on-going transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STI), including HIV, in the Netherlands. As risk behaviour may change with age, it is important to explore potential heterogeneity in risks by age. To improve our understanding of this epidemic, we analysed the prevalence of and risk factors for selected STI in MSM attending STI clinics in the Netherlands by age group. Methods Analysis of data from the national STI surveillance system for the period 2006–2012. Selected STI were chlamydia, gonorrhoea, infectious syphilis and/or a new HIV infection. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with these selected STI and with overall STI positivity. Analyses were done separately for MSM aged younger than 25 years and MSM aged 25 years and older. Results In young MSM a significant increase in positivity rate was seen over time (p < 0.01), mainly driven by increasing gonorrhoea diagnoses, while in MSM aged 25 and older a significant decrease was observed (p < 0.01). In multivariate analyses for young MSM, those who were involved in commercial sex were at higher risk (OR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.2-1.9). For MSM aged 25 years and older this was not the case. Having a previous negative HIV test was protective among older MSM compared to those not tested for HIV before (OR: 0.8, 95% CI: 0.8-0.8), but not among younger MSM. Conclusions MSM visiting STI clinics remain a high-risk group for STI infections and transmission, but are not a homogenous group. While in MSM aged older than 25 years, STI positivity rate is decreasing, positivity rate in young MSM increased over time. Therefore specific attention needs to be paid towards targeted counselling and reaching particular MSM sub-groups, taken into account different behavioural profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke Dh Koedijk
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, RIVM National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven, Utrecht, The Netherlands ; Municipal Health Service Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Birgit Hb van Benthem
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, RIVM National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Wim Zuilhof
- STI AIDS Netherlands, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne Ab van der Sande
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, RIVM National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven, Utrecht, The Netherlands ; Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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15
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Mayhew A, Mullins TLK, Ding L, Rosenthal SL, Zimet GD, Morrow C, Kahn JA. Risk perceptions and subsequent sexual behaviors after HPV vaccination in adolescents. Pediatrics 2014; 133:404-11. [PMID: 24488747 PMCID: PMC3934341 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2013-2822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Concerns have been raised that human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination could lead to altered risk perceptions and an increase in risky sexual behaviors among adolescents. The aim of this study was to assess whether adolescent risk perceptions after the first vaccine dose predicted subsequent sexual behaviors. METHODS Young women 13 to 21 years of age (N = 339) completed questionnaires immediately after HPV vaccination, and 2 and 6 months later, assessing demographic characteristics, knowledge/attitudes about HPV vaccination, risk perceptions, and sexual behaviors. Risk perceptions were measured by using 2 5-item scales assessing: (1) perceived risk of sexually transmitted infections (STI) other than HPV, and (2) perceived need for safer sexual behaviors after HPV vaccination. We assessed associations between risk perceptions at baseline and sexual behaviors over the next 6 months by using logistic regression, stratifying participants by sexual experience at baseline and age (13-15 vs. 16-21 years). RESULTS Among all sexually inexperienced participants (42.5%), baseline risk perceptions were not associated with subsequent sexual initiation; in age-stratified analyses, girls 16 to 21 years of age who reported lower perceived risk for other STI (an inappropriate perception) were less likely to initiate sex (odds ratio [OR] 0.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.03-0.69). Among all sexually experienced participants (57.5%) and in age-stratified analyses, baseline risk perceptions were not associated with subsequent number of sexual partners or condom use. CONCLUSIONS Risk perceptions after HPV vaccination were not associated with riskier sexual behaviors over the subsequent 6 months in this study sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Mayhew
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Tanya L. Kowalczyk Mullins
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio;,Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Lili Ding
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Susan L. Rosenthal
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Medical Center and New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, New York, New York; and
| | - Gregory D. Zimet
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Charlene Morrow
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Jessica A. Kahn
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio;,Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
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16
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de Wit JBF, Adam PCG. Can treatment-based HIV prevention curb the epidemic among gay and other men who have sex with men? A narrative synthesis of increasing evidence for moderating and countervailing effects. Sex Health 2014; 11:137-45. [DOI: 10.1071/sh13142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2013] [Accepted: 01/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
As HIV epidemics among gay and other men who have sex with men (GMSM) persist worldwide, the importance of novel prevention approaches is recognised. Evidence that antiretroviral therapy (ART) can decrease the likelihood of infection is informing emerging HIV prevention approaches, encompassing early initiation of treatment as prevention by people living with HIV and use of antiretroviral drugs as pre-exposure prophylaxis for people presumed to be uninfected. Despite widespread excitement, robust evidence of the beneficial effects of ART-based HIV prevention for GMSM remains limited. Also, theoretical models project widely varying effects of ART-based prevention on the future course of HIV epidemics among GMSM, drawing attention to the possible moderating role of differences in the achievements of local HIV responses and the critical importance of sustained protective sexual practices into the future. Ecological analyses and simulations of ongoing epidemics in major gay communities illustrate that the preventive effects of ART in many settings are being offset by increased sexual risk-taking, as reflected in stable or increasing HIV infection rates. Also, the effects of scaling up HIV testing and treatment among GMSM in settings that are often considered prime examples of the success of ART-based prevention may be levelling as ‘scope for improvement’ diminishes. ART-based approaches further extend the HIV prevention toolkit and substantially increase people’s options to protect themselves and others. The future impact of ART-based prevention on HIV epidemics among GMSM ultimately depends on whether heralded responses offset, attenuate or compound the ongoing social and behavioural changes that drive increased sexual risk.
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17
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de Coul ELMO, Warning TD, Koedijk FDH. Sexual behaviour and sexually transmitted infections in sexually transmitted infection clinic attendees in the Netherlands, 2007-2011. Int J STD AIDS 2013; 25:40-51. [PMID: 23970630 DOI: 10.1177/0956462413491736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
High annual figures of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diagnosed in the Netherlands despite significant efforts to control them. Herein, we analyse trends and determinants of STI diagnoses, co-infections, and sexual risks among visitors of 26 STI clinics between 2007 and 2011. We recorded increased positivity rates of STIs (chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhoea, and/or HIV) in women and heterosexual men up to 12.6% and 13.4%, respectively, in 2011, while rates in men having sex with men (MSM) were stable but high (18.8%) through the documented years. Younger age, origin from Surinam/Antilles, history of previous STI, multiple partners, or a previous notification are the identified risk factors for an STI in this population. Known HIV-infected men (MSM and heterosexuals) were at highest risk for co-infections (relative rate heterosexual men: 15.6; MSM: 11.6). STI positivity rates remained high (MSM) or increased over time (women and heterosexual men), a fact that highlights the importance of continuing STI prevention. Most importantly, the very high STI co-infection rates among HIV-positive men requires intensified STI reduction strategies to put an end to the vicious circle of re-infection and spread of HIV and other STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- E L M Op de Coul
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
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18
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Man WYN, Kelly A, Worth H, Frankland A, Shih P, Kupul M, Lwin T, Mek A, Kepa B, Emori R, Akuani F, Cangah B, Walizopa L, Pirpir L, Nosi S, Siba PM. Sexual risk behaviour, marriage and ART: a study of HIV-positive people in Papua New Guinea. AIDS Res Ther 2013; 10:17. [PMID: 23805823 PMCID: PMC3699368 DOI: 10.1186/1742-6405-10-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2012] [Accepted: 06/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevention of intimate partner transmission of HIV remains an important component of comprehensive HIV prevention strategies. In this paper we examine the sexual practices of people living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Method In 2008, a total of 374 HIV-positive people over the age of 16 and on ART for more than two weeks were recruited using a non-probability, convenience sampling methodology. This accounted for around 18% of adults on ART at the time. A further 36 people participated in semi-structured interviews. All interviews were thematically analysed using NVivo qualitative data analysis software. Results Less than forty per cent (38%) of participants reported having had sexual intercourse in the six months prior to the survey. Marital status was by far the most important factor in determining sexual activity, but consistent condom use during vaginal intercourse with a regular partner was low. Only 46% reported consistent condom use during vaginal intercourse with a regular partner in the last six months, despite 77% of all participants reporting that consistent condom use can prevent HIV transmission. Consistent condom use was lowest amongst married couples and those in seroconcordant relationships. The vast majority (91.8%) of all participants with a regular heterosexual partner had disclosed their status to their partner. Qualitative data reinforced low rates of sexual activity and provided important insights into sexual abstinence and condom use. Conclusions Considering the importance of intimate partner transmission of HIV, these results on the sexual practices of people with HIV on ART in PNG suggest that one-dimensional HIV prevention messages focussing solely on condom use fail to account for the current practices and needs of HIV-positive people, especially those who are married and know their partners’ HIV status.
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Fernández-Balbuena S, Belza MJ, Castilla J, Hoyos J, Rosales-Statkus ME, Sánchez R, de la Fuente L. Awareness and use of nonoccupational HIV post-exposure prophylaxis among people receiving rapid HIV testing in Spain. HIV Med 2012; 14:252-7. [PMID: 23088284 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1293.2012.01056.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This paper examines the awareness and use of nonoccupational HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) in Spain, and the factors that influence this awareness. METHODS Between June 2009 and July 2010, a mobile unit offered free, rapid HIV tests in a number of Spanish cities. A total of 2545 people were passively recruited and tested, and answered a self-administered questionnaire containing sociodemographic, behavioural and nPEP-related questions. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed, stratifying by gender/sexual behaviour. RESULTS Some 34% of the responders were men who have sex with men (MSM), 30% were men who have sex exclusively with women (MSW), and 35% were women. Approximately 26% were foreigners, 46% had a university degree, and 51% had previously taken an HIV test. Overall, 22% were aware of nPEP. Only 2% had ever used it; 70% of these after high-risk sexual intercourse. Awareness was higher among MSM (34%) than women (16%) and MSW (15%). Multivariate analysis showed a lack of nPEP awareness to be associated with being born in Latin America, while awareness increased with the number of previous HIV tests among women and MSW. In MSM, awareness was also associated with having a university degree, the degree of interaction with gay culture, number of partners, and use of the internet as the main way of meeting partners. CONCLUSIONS nPEP awareness in the studied population was unacceptably low. The promotion of its availability should be made a major objective of prevention programmes, as a complementary measure to condom use.
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Risk perceptions after human papillomavirus vaccination in HIV-infected adolescents and young adult women. J Adolesc Health 2012; 50:464-70. [PMID: 22525109 PMCID: PMC3336095 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2011.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2011] [Revised: 09/13/2011] [Accepted: 09/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine risk perceptions (perceived risk of human papillomavirus [HPV], perceived risk of other sexually transmitted infections [STIs], and need for safer sexual behaviors) and to determine factors associated with these risk perceptions after HPV vaccination. METHODS Data were collected at the baseline visit of an HPV-6, -11, -16, -18 vaccine clinical trial in 16-23-year-old HIV-infected young women (N = 99). Immediately after receiving the first vaccine dose, participants completed a confidential questionnaire that included three 5-item scales measuring perceived risk of HPV, perceived risk of other STIs, and need for safer sexual behaviors. Linear and logistic regression models were used to examine associations between baseline characteristics (demographic characteristics; cluster of differentiation antigen 4 (CD4(+)) count; HIV viral load; knowledge about HPV and HPV vaccines; sexual behaviors; and STI diagnosis) and each measure of risk perceptions. RESULTS Most participants perceived themselves to be at lower risk for HPV (mean scale score = 19.5/50), most perceived that they were not at lower risk for other STIs (mean = 31.2/50), and the vast majority reported that there was still a need for safer sexual behaviors after vaccination (mean = 43.1/50). Multivariate analyses indicated that knowledge about HPV and HPV vaccines was associated with perceived need for safer sexual behaviors (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.0-1.1). CONCLUSIONS Although almost all young women in this study believed that safer sexual behaviors were still important after HPV vaccination, a subset believed they were at less risk for STIs other than HPV. Educational interventions are needed to prevent misperceptions and promote healthy behaviors after vaccination.
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22
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Mullins TLK, Zimet GD, Rosenthal SL, Morrow C, Ding L, Shew M, Fortenberry JD, Bernstein DI, Kahn JA. Adolescent perceptions of risk and need for safer sexual behaviors after first human papillomavirus vaccination. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 166:82-8. [PMID: 22213755 DOI: 10.1001/archpediatrics.2011.186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To (1) examine perceptions of risk of human papillomavirus (HPV) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), (2) examine perceived need for safer sexual behaviors, and (3) determine factors associated with less perceived need for safer sexual behaviors, all in the context of receiving the first HPV vaccination. DESIGN Cross-sectional baseline analysis from an ongoing longitudinal cohort study. SETTING An urban hospital-based adolescent primary care clinic. PARTICIPANTS Girls 13 to 21 years (for this article girls are defined as being aged 13 to 21 years) (n = 339) receiving their first HPV vaccination and their mothers (n = 235). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES (1) Girls' perceived risk of HPV after HPV vaccination, (2) girls' perceived risk of other STIs after vaccination, (3) girls' perceived need for continued safer sexual behaviors after vaccination, and (4) factors associated with girls' perception of less need for safer sexual behaviors. RESULTS Mean age of girls was 16.8 years. Most participants (76.4%) were black, and 57.5% were sexually experienced. Girls perceived themselves to be at less risk for HPV than for other STIs after HPV vaccination (P < .001). Although most girls reported continued need for safer sexual behaviors, factors independently associated with perception of less need for safer sexual behaviors included adolescent factors (lower HPV and HPV vaccine knowledge and less concern about HPV) and maternal factors (lower HPV and HPV vaccine knowledge, physician as a source of HPV vaccine information, and lack of maternal communication about the HPV vaccine). CONCLUSIONS Few adolescents perceived less need for safer sexual behaviors after the first HPV vaccination. Education about HPV vaccines and encouraging communication between girls and their mothers may prevent misperceptions among these adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya L Kowalczyk Mullins
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
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HIV/AIDS complacency and HIV infection among young men who have sex with men, and the race-specific influence of underlying HAART beliefs. Sex Transm Dis 2012; 38:755-63. [PMID: 21336231 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0b013e31820d5a77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States, the influence of HIV/AIDS complacency and beliefs about the efficacy of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on HIV-infection risk is unknown. METHODS We analyzed data from a 1998-2000 cross-sectional 6-city survey of 1575 MSM aged 23 to 29 years who had never tested for HIV or had last tested HIV-negative to assess these plausible influences overall and by race/ethnicity. FINDINGS Measured as strong endorsement for reduced HIV/AIDS concern due to HAART, HIV/AIDS complacency was associated with reporting ≥10 male sex partners (odds ratio [OR], 2.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.12-4.07), unprotected anal intercourse with an HIV-positive or HIV-unknown-status male partner (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.51-2.81), and testing HIV-positive (adjusted OR [AOR], 2.35; 95% CI, 1.38-3.98). Strong endorsement of the belief that HAART mitigates HIV/AIDS severity was more prevalent among black (21.8%) and Hispanic (21.3%) than white (9.6%) MSM (P < 0.001), and was more strongly associated with testing HIV-positive among black (AOR, 4.65; 95% CI, 1.97-10.99) and Hispanic (AOR, 4.12; 95% CI, 1.58-10.70) than white (AOR, 1.62; 95% CI, 0.64-4.11) MSM. CONCLUSIONS Young MSM who are complacent about HIV/AIDS because of HAART may be more likely to engage in risk behavior and acquire HIV. Programs that target HIV/AIDS complacency as a means to reduce HIV incidence among young MSM should consider that both the prevalence of strong HAART-efficacy beliefs and the effects of these beliefs on HIV-infection risk might differ considerably by race/ethnicity.
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Huebner DM, Neilands TB, Rebchook GM, Kegeles SM. Sorting through chickens and eggs: a longitudinal examination of the associations between attitudes, norms, and sexual risk behavior. Health Psychol 2011; 30:110-8. [PMID: 21299299 DOI: 10.1037/a0021973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Health behavior theories posit that health-relevant attitudes, beliefs, and behavioral skills drive subsequent actions people take to protect themselves from health threats. Within the realm of HIV-related sexual risk behavior, much of the research in support of this notion is cross-sectional, rather than longitudinal, particularly in studies of gay and bisexual men. Other psychological theories (e.g., self-perception or cognitive dissonance theories) suggest that the opposite could be true--that health-relevant attitudes and beliefs might change as a function of previous risk or precautionary behavior. Appreciating the complex nature of these associations is essential for modifying theory and developing appropriate interventions. DESIGN Using longitudinal data from gay and bisexual men (n = 1465), we used structural equation modeling to examine three possibilities--that perceived norms and attitudes about sexual risk would be (a) related to unprotected anal intercourse cross-sectionally, (b) related to unprotected anal intercourse at a subsequent time point, and/or (c) predicted from previous instances of unprotected anal intercourse. RESULTS Safe-sex norms and attitudes were related to unprotected anal intercourse cross-sectionally, but did not predict unprotected sex longitudinally. Rather, perceived norms and attitudes changed as a function of previous risk behavior. CONCLUSIONS These results raise the possibility that modified theoretical models might be necessary to adequately describe sexual risk behavior among gay and bisexual men.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Huebner
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, 380 South 1530 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84122, USA.
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A plausible causal model of HAART-efficacy beliefs, HIV/AIDS complacency, and HIV-acquisition risk behavior among young men who have sex with men. AIDS Behav 2011; 15:788-804. [PMID: 20862605 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-010-9813-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Despite considerable research, the causal relationship remains unclear between HIV/AIDS complacency, measured as reduced HIV/AIDS concern because of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), and HIV risk behavior. Understanding the directionality and underpinnings of this relationship is critical for programs that target HIV/AIDS complacency as a means to reduce HIV incidence among men who have sex with men (MSM). This report uses structural equation modeling to evaluate a theory-based, HIV/AIDS complacency model on 1,593 MSM who participated in a venue-based, cross-sectional survey in six U.S. cities, 1998-2000. Demonstrating adequate fit and stability across geographic samples, the model explained 15.0% of the variance in HIV-acquisition behavior among young MSM. Analyses that evaluated alternative models and models stratified by perceived risk for HIV infection suggest that HIV/AIDS complacency increases acquisition behavior by mediating the effects of two underlying HAART-efficacy beliefs. New research is needed to assess model effects on current acquisition risk behavior, and thus help inform prevention programs designed to reduce HIV/AIDS complacency and HIV incidence among young MSM.
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Srithanaviboonchai K, Celentano DD, Visaruratana S, Kawichai S, Wichajarn M, Genberg B, Chariyalertsak C, Kulich M, Chariyalertsak S. Awareness about antiretroviral treatment, intentions to use condoms, and decisions to have an HIV test among rural Northern Lowland Thai and ethnic minority young adults. Asia Pac J Public Health 2010; 22:212-8. [PMID: 20457650 DOI: 10.1177/1010539510362912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Young adults aged 18 to 32 years were randomly selected from a household probability sample participating in Project Accept in the remote areas of Chiang Mai province in northern Thailand in 2005. Among 2989 respondents, 44.4% had never heard of antiretroviral treatment (ART). Lack of awareness of ART was independently associated with having had no formal education compared with some formal education and being an ethnic minority compared with being Thai. In all, 57% of the respondents who had ever heard of ART stated that if ART were easily available in their communities it would affect their intentions to be tested for HIV, whereas only 36% stated that this would affect their intentions to use condoms. Younger participants were less likely to intend to get an HIV test as compared with older individuals, and ethnic minorities were less likely to report that they would get an HIV test compared with Thai lowlanders. Single individuals and people who lived separately from their spouses were more likely to have the intention to use condoms if ART were available.
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Mimiaga MJ, Reisner SL, Goldhammer H, Tetu AM, Belanoff C, Mayer KH. Sources of Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Sexually Transmitted Disease Information and Responses to Prevention Messages among Massachusetts Men Who Have Sex with Men. Am J Health Promot 2010; 24:170-7. [DOI: 10.4278/ajhp.08042841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose. Sexually transmitted disease (STD) rates have continued to increase among men who have sex with men (MSM). The present study used qualitative methods to assess sources of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/STD information and responses to HIV/STD prevention messages among MSM. This was done to understand how to design more effective media campaigns on HIV/STD prevention and testing for this population. Design. One-on-one semistructured, qualitative interviews and a brief demographic written survey were conducted. Setting. A Massachusetts community-based organization specializing in HIV/AIDS healthcare. Participants. A novel, modified, respondent-driven sampling method was used to recruit a diverse sample of 50 Massachusetts MSM between January and April 2005; qualitative interviews were conducted until redundancy in responses was achieved. Method. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. NVIVO software was used to organize transcripts, identify themes, and report frequency of responses. Results. Respondents reported having derived information on sexual health from multiple media sources. Direct outreach, gay- and HIV-centered organizations, print and broadcast media, public transportation ads, and the Internet held the greatest potential for dissemination. Primary care providers were also frequently seen as trusted sources of HIV/STD prevention information. Ideas for content often included having “people just like you” in ads. Conclusion. Health messages that focus on getting tested for HIV and STDs, practicing safe sex, and incorporating straightforward and accurate information on prevention may be the most acceptable to MSM. Providers should be proactive in disseminating information about HIV/STD prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Mimiaga
- Matthew J. Mimiaga, ScD, MPH; San L. Reisner, MA; Hilary Goldhammer, ScM; Ashley M. Tetu, MPH; and Kenneth H. Mayer, MD, are with The Fenway Institute, Fenway Community Health, Boston, Massachusetts. Matthew J. Mimiaga, ScD, MPH, is with Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. Ashley M. Tetu, MPH, is with Boston University, School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts. Candice Belanoff, MPH, is with the Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sari L. Reisner
- Matthew J. Mimiaga, ScD, MPH; San L. Reisner, MA; Hilary Goldhammer, ScM; Ashley M. Tetu, MPH; and Kenneth H. Mayer, MD, are with The Fenway Institute, Fenway Community Health, Boston, Massachusetts. Matthew J. Mimiaga, ScD, MPH, is with Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. Ashley M. Tetu, MPH, is with Boston University, School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts. Candice Belanoff, MPH, is with the Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hilary Goldhammer
- Matthew J. Mimiaga, ScD, MPH; San L. Reisner, MA; Hilary Goldhammer, ScM; Ashley M. Tetu, MPH; and Kenneth H. Mayer, MD, are with The Fenway Institute, Fenway Community Health, Boston, Massachusetts. Matthew J. Mimiaga, ScD, MPH, is with Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. Ashley M. Tetu, MPH, is with Boston University, School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts. Candice Belanoff, MPH, is with the Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ashley M. Tetu
- Matthew J. Mimiaga, ScD, MPH; San L. Reisner, MA; Hilary Goldhammer, ScM; Ashley M. Tetu, MPH; and Kenneth H. Mayer, MD, are with The Fenway Institute, Fenway Community Health, Boston, Massachusetts. Matthew J. Mimiaga, ScD, MPH, is with Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. Ashley M. Tetu, MPH, is with Boston University, School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts. Candice Belanoff, MPH, is with the Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Candice Belanoff
- Matthew J. Mimiaga, ScD, MPH; San L. Reisner, MA; Hilary Goldhammer, ScM; Ashley M. Tetu, MPH; and Kenneth H. Mayer, MD, are with The Fenway Institute, Fenway Community Health, Boston, Massachusetts. Matthew J. Mimiaga, ScD, MPH, is with Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. Ashley M. Tetu, MPH, is with Boston University, School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts. Candice Belanoff, MPH, is with the Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kenneth H. Mayer
- Matthew J. Mimiaga, ScD, MPH; San L. Reisner, MA; Hilary Goldhammer, ScM; Ashley M. Tetu, MPH; and Kenneth H. Mayer, MD, are with The Fenway Institute, Fenway Community Health, Boston, Massachusetts. Matthew J. Mimiaga, ScD, MPH, is with Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. Ashley M. Tetu, MPH, is with Boston University, School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts. Candice Belanoff, MPH, is with the Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
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Use of viral load to negotiate condom use among gay men in Sydney, Australia. AIDS Behav 2009; 13:645-51. [PMID: 19199021 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-009-9527-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2008] [Accepted: 01/23/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Using two cohort studies (Health in men-HIM and positive health-PH) and repeated large cross-sectional surveys (Gay Community Periodic Survey-GCPS) of gay men in Sydney, Australia, we examined the association between viral load and unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) between HIV sero-discordant regular partners. Between 2001 and 2007, we conducted 243 interviews with 102 HIV-negative gay men in HIM and 148 interviews with 99 HIV-positive gay men in PH who were in regular relationships with HIV sero-discordant partners. During the same time period, 437 HIV positive men with HIV sero-discordant regular partners completed questionnaires for the GCPS. All completed interviews or questionnaires during that time period were used for these analyses. Amongst the HIV-negative respondents, sero-discordant UAI was more likely to be reported when the men believed their HIV-positive regular partner had an undetectable rather than a detectable viral load (P = 0.002). Amongst the HIV-positive respondents, sero-discordant UAI was as likely to be reported when they themselves reported having an undetectable or a detectable viral load. Use of viral load in negotiating condom use between sero-discordant gay couples may be understood very differently by the HIV-negative and HIV-positive men within those partnerships.
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Wolfers MEG, de Wit JBF, Hospers HJ, Richardus JH, de Zwart O. Effects of a short individually tailored counselling session for HIV prevention in gay and bisexual men receiving Hepatitis B vaccination. BMC Public Health 2009; 9:255. [PMID: 19622161 PMCID: PMC2726145 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-9-255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2008] [Accepted: 07/21/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is currently a trend towards unsafe unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) among men who have sex with men. We evaluated a short individual counselling session on reducing UAI among gay and bisexual men. Methods A quasi-experimental design was used to evaluate the counselling session. This session was conducted during consulting hours at four municipal health clinics during a Hepatitis B vaccination campaign. These clinics offered free vaccination to high-risk groups, such as gay and bisexual men. All gay and bisexual men attending health clinics in four cities in the Netherlands were asked to participate. Each participant in the intervention group received a fifteen-minute individual counselling based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour and Motivational Interviewing. Changes in UAI were measured over a 5-months period, using self-administered questionnaires. UAI was measured separately for receptive and insertive intercourse in steady and casual partners. These measures were combined in an index-score (range 0–8). Results While UAI in the counselling group remained stable, it increased in the controls by 66% from 0.41 to 0.68. The results show that the intervention had a protective effect on sexual behaviour with steady partners. Intervention effects were strongest within steady relationships, especially for men whose steady-relationship status changed during the study. The intervention was well accepted among the target group. Conclusion The fifteen-minute individually tailored counselling session was not only well accepted but also had a protective effect on risk behaviour after a follow-up of six months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireille E G Wolfers
- Division of Infectious Diseases Control, Municipal Public Health Service Rotterdam Area, the Netherlands.
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Thiede H, Jenkins RA, Carey JW, Hutcheson R, Thomas KK, Stall RD, White E, Allen I, Mejia R, Golden MR. Determinants of recent HIV infection among Seattle-area men who have sex with men. Am J Public Health 2009; 99 Suppl 1:S157-64. [PMID: 18445808 PMCID: PMC2724937 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2006.098582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2007] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We sought to identify HIV-infection risk factors related to partner selection and sexual behaviors with those partners among men who have sex with men (MSM) in King County, Washington. METHODS Participants were recruited from HIV testing sites in the Seattle area. Recent HIV infection status was determined by the Serologic Testing Algorithm for Recent HIV Seroconversion (STARHS) or a self-reported previous HIV-negative test. Data on behaviors with 3 male partners were collected via computer-based self-interviews. Generalized estimating equation models identified partnership factors associated with recent infection. RESULTS We analyzed data from 32 HIV-positive MSM (58 partners) and 110 HIV-negative MSM (213 partners). In multivariate analysis, recent HIV infection was associated with meeting partners at bathhouses or sex clubs, bars or dance clubs, or online; methamphetamine use during unprotected anal intercourse; and unprotected anal intercourse, except with HIV-negative primary partners. CONCLUSIONS There is a need to improve efforts to promote condom use with casual partners, regardless of their partner's HIV status. New strategies to control methamphetamine use in MSM and to reduce risk behaviors related to meeting partners at high-risk venues are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne Thiede
- Public Health-Seattle & King County, 400 Yesler Way, 3rd Floor, Seattle, WA 98104, USA.
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Golub SA, Rosenthal L, Cohen DE, Mayer KH. Determinants of high-risk sexual behavior during post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent HIV infection. AIDS Behav 2008; 12:852-9. [PMID: 17682938 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-007-9286-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2007] [Accepted: 07/16/2007] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) receiving non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (NPEP) to prevent HIV transmission completed interview-assisted questionnaires regarding high-risk behavior in the 6 months prior to NPEP and during the 28-day NPEP period. 21% of participants reported unprotected sex during NPEP, and 11% reported unprotected sex with HIV-positive or HIV status unknown partners. In univariate analyses, unprotected sex during NPEP was associated with prevention fatigue, depression, loss of loved ones to HIV, and a history of engagement with HIV/AIDS service organizations, e.g., receiving services from an HIV-related agency, donating money to HIV-related causes, and reading HIV-related magazines. Logistic regression analyses revealed that the strongest predictor of risk-taking during NPEP was HIV engagement. These data underscore the importance of combining chemoprophylaxis with behavioral interventions that support risk-reduction. Such interventions should not assume that those most engaged with HIV/AIDS service organizations are less likely to engage in risk behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarit A Golub
- Queens College of the City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Boulevard, Flushing, NY 11367, USA.
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Trends in agreements between regular partners among gay men in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, Australia. AIDS Behav 2008; 12:513-20. [PMID: 18188690 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-007-9351-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2007] [Accepted: 12/26/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Between 1998 and 2007, 51,449 Gay Community Periodic Survey questionnaires were completed in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, Australia. These included 23,424 where the respondents reported currently being in a relationship with a regular male partner. About 90% of men with a regular partner had been tested for HIV, and about three quarters had tested HIV-negative. Between 1998 and 2007 there was an increase in the proportion of men in HIV-negative seroconcordant relationships. About three quarters of men with a regular partner had negotiated an agreement about sex within their relationship. There was little change over time in the likelihood of having negotiated such agreements. There were, however, changes over time in the nature of these negotiated agreements: Over time, more men in HIV-discordant relationships permitted unprotected anal intercourse with their regular partners (P-trend < .001); among men in HIV-negative concordant relationships, an increasing proportion required a monogamous arrangement with their regular partner (P-trend < .001); and over time, fewer men in general required consistent condom use with casual partners (P-trend < .001). Some of these changes in negotiated agreements represent an increase in the potential risk of HIV transmission.
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Recent Acquired STD and the Use of HAART in the Italian Cohort of Naive for Antiretrovirals (I.Co.N.A): Analysis of the Incidence of Newly Acquired Hepatitis B Infection and Syphilis. Infection 2008; 36:46-53. [DOI: 10.1007/s15010-007-6300-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2006] [Accepted: 08/15/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Kennedy C, O'Reilly K, Medley A, Sweat M. The impact of HIV treatment on risk behaviour in developing countries: A systematic review. AIDS Care 2007; 19:707-20. [PMID: 17573590 DOI: 10.1080/09540120701203261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In developing countries, access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is improving as HIV treatment becomes a greater priority in the global fight against AIDS. While ART has clearly beneficial clinical effects, increased access to treatment may also affect sexual behaviour. To examine the strength of evidence for the impact of medical treatment for HIV-positive individuals on behavioural outcomes in developing countries, we conducted a comprehensive search of the peer-reviewed literature. Studies were included if they provided clinical treatment to HIV-positive individuals in a developing country, compared behavioural, psychological, social, care, or biological outcomes related to HIV-prevention using a pre/post or multi-arm study design, and were published between January 1990 and January 2006. Only three studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria. All were conducted in Africa, utilized before/after or multi-arm study designs, and relied on self-reported behaviour. In all three studies, a majority of HIV-infected individuals reported being sexually abstinent, and access to ART was not associated with an increase in HIV-related risky sexual behaviours. However, one cross-sectional study found that ART patients were more likely to report STD treatment. The available evidence indicates a significant reduction in risk behaviour associated with ART in developing countries. However, there are few existing studies and the rigor of these studies is weak. More studies are needed to build an evidence base on which to make programmatic and policy decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Kennedy
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of International Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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Sonder GJB, van den Hoek A, Regez RM, Brinkman K, Prins JM, Mulder JW, Veenstra J, Claessen FA, Coutinho RA. Trends in HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis Prescription and Compliance After Sexual Exposure in Amsterdam, 2000–2004. Sex Transm Dis 2007; 34:288-93. [PMID: 16980918 DOI: 10.1097/01.olq.0000237838.43716.ee] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate trends in HIV postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) requests after sexual exposure, compliance, and outcome of follow-up HIV tests. STUDY DESIGN The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of all HIV PEP requests after sexual exposure between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2004, in Amsterdam. RESULTS In 5 years, there was a very modest increase in PEP requests, of which most (75%) came from men who have sex with men (MSM). Although 70% reported side effects, 85% completed their PEP course. Sexual assault victims less often completed their course (odds ratio [OR] = 0.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.05-0.4, P = 0.001). People who used HIV PEP more often complied with follow-up tests than people who did not use PEP (OR = 3.5; 95% CI = 1.6-7.9, P = 0.002). One HIV seroconversion was found caused by a later exposure than that for which PEP was given. CONCLUSIONS Despite a widely available PEP program in Amsterdam, the number of PEP requests remained low. Most people completed their PEP course; compliance with follow-up HIV testing was high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard J B Sonder
- GGD Amsterdam, Municipal Health Service Amsterdam, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Dukers NHTM, Fennema HSA, van der Snoek EM, Krol A, Geskus RB, Pospiech M, Jurriaans S, van der Meijden WI, Coutinho RA, Prins M. HIV incidence and HIV testing behavior in men who have sex with men: using three incidence sources, The Netherlands, 1984-2005. AIDS 2007; 21:491-9. [PMID: 17301568 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0b013e328011dade] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In The Netherlands, the western part, including Rotterdam and Amsterdam harbors the majority of the known HIV-infected population, of whom men who have sex with men (MSM) comprise the largest transmission category. Given a general rise in sexually transmitted infections (STI) and risky sexual behavior, we examine the HIV incidence among MSM in the Netherlands with data from three different sources. METHODS To describe the HIV epidemic among MSM we use: a prospective cohort study in Rotterdam (ROHOCO: 1998-2003, n = 265) and another in Amsterdam (ACS: 1984-2005, n = 1498]) plus an anonymous HIV surveillance study (Amsterdam STI clinic: 1991-2004, n = 3733) in which HIV-positive MSM were tested with a less-sensitive HIV assay. We evaluated calendar trends in HIV incidence, also focusing on age effects. RESULTS Since the start of the HIV epidemic in the early 1980s, incidence has declined strongly in the ACS. In recent years, an increase was noted among older MSM attending the Amsterdam STI clinic (P = 0.0334). In both cohort studies, HIV incidence was lower and recent time-trends were not statistically significant. Among recently infected men at the STI clinic, only 40% accepted named HIV testing at their STI consultation. CONCLUSIONS Data suggest that among MSM in the Netherlands, the HIV incidence is between one and four infections per 100 person-years. The epidemic expands among older STI clinic attendees. Prevention should be developed specifically for older men, along with a more efficient HIV testing approach such as routine HIV testing of MSM when they are screened for STI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole H T M Dukers
- Department of Research, Cluster Infectious Diseases, Health Service of Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Kolader ME, Dukers NHTM, van der Bij AK, Dierdorp M, Fennema JSA, Coutinho RA, Bruisten SM. Molecular epidemiology of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, shows distinct heterosexual and homosexual networks. J Clin Microbiol 2006; 44:2689-97. [PMID: 16891479 PMCID: PMC1594601 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.02311-05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular typing, added to epidemiological data, can better identify transmission patterns of gonorrhea in Western countries, where the incidence has recently been rising. From September 2002 to September 2003, patients with a laboratory-confirmed diagnosis of gonorrhea at the Clinic for Sexually Transmitted Infections in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, were subjected to a questionnaire pertaining to sexual risk behavior and sexual partners in the 6 months prior to the diagnosis. The Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates were all genotyped using PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism of the porin and opacity genes. All patients with a completed questionnaire and genotyped isolates were included in the study. We obtained 885 N. gonorrhoeae isolates from 696 patients that revealed 88 clusters and 46 unique genotypes. Patients infected at multiple anatomical sites with one or more strains and patients infected several times during the study period were shown to pursue high-risk sexual behavior and were considered core groups. There were 11 clusters of > or =20 patients; in seven clusters, 81% to 100% of patients were men who have sex with men (MSM), three clusters contained 87 to 100% heterosexual men and women, and one cluster was formed by equal proportions of MSM and heterosexual male and female patients. However, the various clusters differed in characteristics such as types of coinfections, numbers of sexual partners, Internet use to seek sexual partners, and locations of sexual encounters. Molecular epidemiology of gonococcal isolates in Amsterdam revealed core groups and clusters of MSM and heterosexual patients that probably indicate distinct transmission networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion-Eliëtte Kolader
- STI Clinic, Cluster of Infectious Diseases, Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Chen SC, Wang ST, Chen KT, Yan TR, Tang LH, Lin CC, Yen SF. Analysis of the influence of therapy and viral suppression on high-risk sexual behaviour and sexually transmitted infections among patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus in Taiwan. Clin Microbiol Infect 2006; 12:660-5. [PMID: 16774563 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2006.01473.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the effects of certain characteristics of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients related to the risks of practising unprotected sex (UPS) among 919 HIV-infected patients who attended the sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinic of the Taipei City STD Control Center, Taiwan, during the period January-July 2004. After learning that they were HIV-positive, 517 (56%) subjects had practised UPS, 476 (52%) had a new STD diagnosis, and 106 (12%) had used some form of injected drug. UPS was reported by 76% of homosexual/bisexual males, 19% of heterosexual males and 5% of females, and was reported more often by those individuals with casual sexual partners (p < 0.001). According to multivariate logistic regression analyses, UPS was associated with male-to-male sexual intercourse (OR 2.46; 95% CI 1.26-4.86, p < 0.001), with casual sexual partners (OR 2.82; 95% CI 1.62-4.88, p < 0.001), and with an individual's knowledge of his/her HIV status for > 11 years (OR 2.06; 95% CI 1.02-4.18, p < 0.05). Although using anti-retroviral therapy to prevent sexual transmission of HIV is rational, the avoidance of at-risk sexual behaviour should also be a priority among HIV-seropositive individuals. Ongoing risk-reduction counselling related to HIV transmission is needed to reduce certain sexual behaviours associated with HIV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- S-C Chen
- Department of Bioengineering, Tatung University, Taiwan
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Stolte IG, de Wit JBF, Kolader M, Fennema H, Coutinho RA, Dukers NHTM. Association between 'safer sex fatigue' and rectal gonorrhea is mediated by unsafe sex with casual partners among HIV-positive homosexual men. Sex Transm Dis 2006; 33:201-8. [PMID: 16505749 DOI: 10.1097/01.olq.0000194596.78637.8e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to investigate whether and what sexual risk behavior is a mediator of associations between rectal gonorrhea (RG) and highly active antiretroviral therapy-related beliefs, safer sex fatigue, or sexual sensation-seeking among homosexual men. STUDY DESIGN This study consisted of a cross-sectional survey between March 2002 and December 2003 among homosexual visitors of the Amsterdam sexually transmitted disease clinic. METHODS In total, 1568 men answered a written questionnaire. Associations were determined using logistic regression corrected for repeated measurements. RESULTS The RG infection rate was high among homosexual men who were HIV-positive (16%) compared with those with negative or unknown HIV status. Mediation could be confirmed among HIV-positive men only. Those who experienced higher levels of safer sex fatigue were more likely to be positive for RG. This association was mediated by unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) with casual partners. CONCLUSION Addressing safer sex fatigue might help prevent UAI with casual partners and possibly also RG among HIV-positive homosexual men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ineke G Stolte
- Cluster of Infectious Diseases, HIV & STD Research, Municipal Health Service, Amsterdam, and the Department of Social and Organizational Psychology, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Gorbach PM, Drumright LN, Daar ES, Little SJ. Transmission Behaviors of Recently HIV-Infected Men Who Have Sex With Men. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2006; 42:80-5. [PMID: 16763494 DOI: 10.1097/01.qai.0000196665.78497.f1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Analyze postdiagnosis behaviors of recently HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM). METHODS Recently HIV-infected MSM were interviewed at 6 weeks (n = 153) and 3 months (n = 113) after diagnosis. Behaviors from baseline to follow-up were compared; multivariate logistic regression identified associations between baseline characteristics and behavior at follow-up. RESULTS At follow-up, MSM reported a significantly lower mean of partners (7.9 vs. 5.2) and lower means of 1-time (1.9 vs. 0.8), unknown (3.7 vs. 2.6), and acquaintance (1.1 vs. 0.5) partners than at baseline. In multivariate analyses, unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) with the last partner at follow-up was more likely if the last partner at baseline was a main partner (odds ratio [OR] = 2.94, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04 to 8.33) or HIV-positive partner (OR = 3.36, 95% CI: 1.27 to 8.88) but less likely if, at follow-up, the last partner was HIV-negative (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.08 to 1.00) or of unknown HIV status (OR = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.08 to 0.71), the participant had a history of nonconsensual sex (OR = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.09 to 0.72), or the participant had more than 1 partner (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.09 to 0.86). More than 1 partner at follow-up was associated with no main partner at baseline or follow-up (OR = 2.76, 95% CI: 1.12 to 6.78), more partners in the last 12 months (OR = 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.04), and UAI with the last partner (OR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.14 to 0.90). CONCLUSIONS After diagnosis, some but not all recently HIV-infected MSM reduced risky sexual behavior permitting potential HIV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamina M Gorbach
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Division of Infections Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA 90095-1772, USA.
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van der Snoek EM, de Wit JBF, Götz HM, Mulder PGH, Neumann MHA, van der Meijden WI. Incidence of sexually transmitted diseases and HIV infection in men who have sex with men related to knowledge, perceived susceptibility, and perceived severity of sexually transmitted diseases and HIV infection: Dutch MSM-Cohort Study. Sex Transm Dis 2006; 33:193-8. [PMID: 16505742 DOI: 10.1097/01.olq.0000194593.58251.8d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This longitudinal study was conducted to investigate whether knowledge, perceived susceptibility, and perceived severity of HIV infection and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are associated with the incidence of STDs and new HIV infections among men who have sex with men (MSM). METHODS A 3-year cohort study was conducted among 190 HIV-negative MSM. Data were collected on the incidence of STDs and new HIV infections, as well as on knowledge and perceived susceptibility to and perceived severity of HIV infection and STDs. Knowledge and perceptions were assessed in self-administered questionnaires. RESULTS In the course of the 3-year study, six MSM (3.2%) HIV-seroconverted and 78 (41.1%) participants were diagnosed with at least one STD. MSM seemed to be better informed about HIV infection compared with STDs, and HIV infection was perceived as more severe than other STDs. In multivariable analyses, low perceived severity of HIV infection significantly (P = 0.025) predicted increased likelihood of infection with STDs or HIV, and the practice of anal intercourse was (marginally) associated with an increased risk of acquiring STDs or HIV (P = 0.052). CONCLUSIONS A high perceived severity of HIV infection seems to induce sexual behavior that protects against STDs and HIV infection. More research is needed to establish the specific behaviors by which perceived severity of STDs/HIV influences the incidence of STDs and HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric M van der Snoek
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To describe changing patterns of sexual behaviour in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy among gay/bisexual men in Europe, Canada, USA and Australia. RECENT FINDINGS While there has been a substantial increase in high-risk sexual behaviour among gay men since 1996, this now appears to be levelling off in some cities. Overall the empirical evidence does not support the suggestion that taking highly active antiretroviral therapy or having an undetectable viral load leads to risky sexual behaviour among people with HIV. Nor can HIV treatment optimism alone explain the recent increase in high-risk sexual behaviour. Since 1996, an increasing number of gay men have begun to use the Internet to look for sexual partners. By serosorting on the Internet, HIV-positive men are more likely to meet online, rather than off-line, other HIV-positive men for unprotected sex. While serosorting does not present a risk of HIV transmission to an uninfected person, it does present a risk of other sexually transmitted infections and co-infection with resistant virus for HIV-positive men themselves. This review also explores emerging behaviours such as barebacking and strategic positioning as well as the role of crystal meth and Viagra. SUMMARY The review reminds us of the complexity of human and sexual behaviour. Among gay men, sexual behaviour in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy has been characterized by risk reduction and stabilization as well as increasing risk. These changing patterns provide a new challenge as well as new opportunities for HIV prevention.
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Wilson TE, Vlahov D, Crystal S, Absalon J, Klein SJ, Remien RH, Remein RH, Agins B. Integrating HIV prevention activities into the HIV medical care setting: a report from the NYC HIV Centers Consortium. J Urban Health 2006; 83:18-30. [PMID: 16736352 PMCID: PMC2258324 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-005-9004-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
With the maturing of the HIV epidemic and availability of potent antiretroviral therapies in the US, priorities for HIV prevention have shifted from general population approaches to case finding, treatment, risk reduction and relapse prevention activities among those at greatest risk for acquiring or transmitting HIV infection. The challenges of this approach include ensuring access and adherence to HIV care and treatment and appropriate prevention activities to ensure adequate and sustained sexual and drug use risk reduction across diverse populations. Experience with approaches to address these issues, particularly in the context of primary care, has been limited. An agenda for future research and practice includes continued development and evaluation of interventions that can address this next generation of health care issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey E Wilson
- HIV Center for Women and Children, Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, NY 11203, USA.
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