Vaccination differences among U.S. adults by their self-identified sexual orientation, National Health Interview Survey, 2013-2015

Hepatitis A vaccination in a racially and sexually diverse population of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men: Findings from the QVax study

BACKGROUND

Previous studies found vaccination uptake of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPD) to be associated with race/ethnicity and medical mistrust among key populations, however, few studies examine Hepatitis A vaccination uptake.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study used online survey data collected from NJ and NY residents identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ+) from October 2021 through November 2022.

RESULTS

This study used a subsample of 222 gay, bisexual, and other cisgender men, 66.7% White, with mean age 41.22 years (SD = 15.23), and 60% fully vaccinated for Hepatitis A. Overall, average group-based medical mistrust scores did not differ among non-vaccinated participants compared to fully or partially vaccinated participants. However, higher group-based medical mistrust scores were associated with non-White identifying participants, and were highest among Hispanic/Latinx (2.68, sd = 0.43) and Black non-Hispanic (2.58, sd = 0.50) participants (p < .001). Vaccination patterns did not differ among fear or vaccine confidence-based items.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results contribute to the limited knowledge of differences in Hepatitis A vaccination uptake among men who have sex with men, and support the need for targeted intervention programs that acknowledge the diverse population of LGBTQ + identifying individuals and their associated health behaviors.

Assessing Narrative Patterns in Health Access, Outcomes, and Behaviors Across Three Data Sets From England, the United States, and California for Sexual Minority Adults

We examined peer-reviewed publications analyzing data from the English GP Patient Survey (GPPS), U.S. National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), and California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) to explore how the health of sexual minority populations varies across settings and subgroups. We searched for English language articles published 2011-2022, screening abstracts (n = 112), reviewing full text (n = 97), and extracting data (n = 85). We conducted a content analysis to identify patterns across settings for sexual minority people compared with heterosexual counterparts and each other. Across all settings, sexual minority adults had poorer health care access, worse health outcomes and patient experiences, more detrimental health behaviors, and greater health care services utilization (reflecting risk awareness and need). When subgroup data were reported, differences were greater among women, except for HIV and related cancers, which were most prevalent among sexual minority men. Sexual minority people generally reported significantly worse health access, outcomes, and behaviors in all three settings.

Prevalence and factors associated with hepatitis B susceptibility among men who sex with men on HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis in Northeastern Brazil: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with susceptibility to hepatitis B virus (HBV) among cisgender men who have sex with men (MSM) on HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Northeastern Brazil.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional, analytical study conducted between September 2021 and June 2023. Participants underwent structured interviews to collect sociodemographic and clinical information, including hepatitis B vaccination history, HIV PrEP use and sexual health history. Blood samples were collected for hepatitis B serologic testing: HBV surface antigen (HBsAg), HBV surface antibody (anti-HBs), total and IgM HBV core antibody (anti-HBc). HBV susceptibility was defined as nonreactive results for all these serological markers.

RESULTS

A total of 287 participants were enrolled into the study. The median age of the individuals was 31 years (interquartile range: 27; 36). HBV susceptibility was found in 58 out 286 individuals (20.3%; 95% CI: 15.9-25.2). Seventy-six percent of the participants reported completing the three-dose hepatitis B vaccine schedule. Susceptibility was significantly associated with a monthly income ≤ 5 minimum wages (PR: 2.02; 95% CI: 1.01-4.05), lack of complete hepatitis B vaccination schedule (PR: 4.52; 95% CI: 2.89-7.06), initiation of HIV PrEP (PR: 2.18; 95% CI: 1.21-3.94), duration of six months of HIV PrEP (PR: 2.16; 95% CI: 1.19-3.91), absence of tattoos (PR: 1.55; 95% CI: 1.00-2.40) and no history of sexually transmitted infections (PR: 1.65; 95% CI: 1.07-2.54).

CONCLUSION

Our findings highlight the significant burden of HBV susceptibility among MSM on HIV PrEP in Northeastern Brazil. Socioeconomic factors, vaccination status, PrEP use and sexual health behaviors play critical roles in determining susceptibility to HBV. Integrating hepatitis B screening and vaccination into PrEP services is critical for identifying and addressing HBV susceptibility among MSM. Interventions aimed at increasing vaccination coverage and promoting safer sexual practices are essential for mitigating the burden of HBV infection in this population.

Medicare Eligibility and Changes in Coverage, Access to Care, and Health by Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity

Importance

Medicare provides nearly universal insurance coverage at age 65 years. However, how Medicare eligibility affects disparities in health insurance coverage, access to care, and health status among individuals by sexual orientation and gender identity is poorly understood.

Objective

To assess the association of Medicare eligibility with disparities in health insurance coverage, access to care, and self-reported health status among individuals by sexual orientation and by gender identity.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study used the age discontinuity for Medicare eligibility at age 65 years to isolate the association of Medicare with health insurance coverage, access to care, and self-reported health status, by their sexual orientation and by their gender identity. Data were collected from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System for respondents from 51 to 79 years old from 2014 to 2021. Data analysis was performed from September 2022 to April 2023.

Exposures

Medicare eligibility at age 65 years.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Proportions of respondents with health insurance coverage, usual source of care, cost barriers to care, influenza vaccination, and self-reported health status.

Results

The study population included 927 952 individuals (mean [SD] age, 64.4 [7.7] years; 524 972 [56.6%] females and 402 670 [43.4%] males), of whom 28 077 (3.03%) identified as a sexual minority-lesbian, gay, bisexual, or another sexual minority identity (LGB+) and 3286 (0.35%) as transgender or gender diverse. Respondents who identified as heterosexual had greater improvements at age 65 years in insurance coverage (4.2 percentage points [pp]; 95% CI, 4.0-4.4 pp) than those who identified as LGB+ (3.6 pp; 95% CI, 2.3-4.8 pp), except when the analysis was limited to a subsample of married respondents. For access to care, improvements in usual source of care, cost barriers to care, and influenza vaccination were larger at age 65 years for heterosexual respondents compared with LGB+ respondents, although confidence intervals were overlapping and less precise for LGB+ individuals. For self-reported health status, the analyses found larger improvements at age 65 years for LGB+ respondents compared with heterosexual respondents. There was considerable heterogeneity by state in disparities by sexual orientation among individuals who were nearly eligible for Medicare (close to 65 years old), with the US South and Central states demonstrating the highest disparities. Among the top-10 highest-disparities states, Medicare eligibility was associated with greater increases in coverage (6.7 pp vs 5.0 pp) and access to a usual source of care (1.4 pp vs 0.6 pp) for LGB+ respondents compared with heterosexual respondents.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cross-sectional study indicate that Medicare eligibility was not associated with consistently greater improvements in health insurance coverage and access to care among LGBTQI+ individuals compared with heterosexual and/or cisgender individuals. However, among sexual minority individuals, Medicare may be associated with closing gaps in self-reported health status, and among states with the highest disparities, it may improve health insurance coverage, access to care, and self-reported health status.

Factors associated with hepatitis A susceptibility among men who have sex with men using HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis in Northeastern Brazil: A cross-sectional study

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection has disproportionately affected more men who have sex with men (MSM), occurring in outbreaks, despite being vaccine-preventable. We determined the prevalence and factors associated with HAV susceptibility among cisgender MSM on HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Northeastern Brazil. From September 30, 2021 to June 19, 2023, 282 cisgender MSM receiving HIV PrEP were enrolled into this cross-sectional study. Sociodemographic and clinical information were collected. Blood samples were collected for screening of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and serum samples were tested for IgM and total anti-HAV antibodies. Non-reactive results for total anti-HAV antibodies were found in 106 of 282 (37.6%) participants. Factors associated with HAV susceptibility included age <30 years (prevalence ratio [PR]: 2.02; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.61-2.53), having health insurance (PR: 1.39; 95% CI: 1.19-1.64), sex only with cisgender men (PR: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.23-1.89), non-steady partner (PR: 1.20; 95% CI: 1.01-1.43) and no lifetime history of STIs (PR: 1.25; 95% CI: 1.03-1.53). Identifying clinical correlates of HAV susceptibility in key populations is a fundamental step towards development of public policy focused on prevention, especially following the recent hepatitis A outbreak in Brazil.

Unpacking Intersectional Inequities in Flu Vaccination by Sexuality, Gender, and Race-Ethnicity in the United States

Health care research has long overlooked the intersection of multiple social inequalities. This study examines influenza vaccination inequities at the intersection of sexuality, gender, and race-ethnicity. Using data from the 2013 to 2018 National Health Interview Survey (N = 166,908), the study shows that sexual, gender, and racial-ethnic identities jointly shaped flu vaccination. Specifically, White gay men had the highest vaccination rate (56%), while Black bisexual women had the lowest rate (23%). Across Black, Hispanic, and White individuals, sexual minority women had lower vaccination rates than heterosexual women, but sexual minority men had higher or similar vaccination rates than heterosexual men. Economic enabling, noneconomic enabling, and need-based factors together explained a substantial portion of these gaps. However, they cannot explain all the disadvantages faced by Black lesbian, bisexual, and heterosexual women and Black heterosexual men. Findings offer new evidence of hidden health care inequities and inform health policies from an intersectional perspective.

Progress and Unfinished Business: Hepatitis B in the United States, 1980-2019

During 1990-2019, universal infant and childhood vaccination for hepatitis B resulted in a 99% decline in reported cases of acute hepatitis B among children, adolescents, and young adults aged <19 years in the United States; however, during 2010-2019, cases of acute hepatitis B plateaued or increased among adults aged ≥40 years. We conducted a topical review of surveillance strategies that will be critical to support the elimination of hepatitis B as a public health threat in the United States. In 2019, notifiable disease surveillance for acute hepatitis B showed continued transmission, especially among people who inject drugs and people with multiple sexual partners; rates were highest among people who were aged 30-59 years, non-Hispanic White, and living in rural areas. In contrast, newly reported cases of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) were highest among people who were aged 30-49 years, Asian or Pacific Islander, and living in urban areas. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey documented the highest CHB prevalence among non-US-born, non-Hispanic Asian people during 2013-2018; only one-third of people with CHB were aware of their infection. In the context of universal adult vaccination (2022) and screening (2023) recommendations for hepatitis B, better data are needed to support programmatic strategies to improve (1) vaccination rates among people with behaviors that put them at risk for transmission and (2) screening and linkage to care among non-US-born people. Surveillance for hepatitis B needs to be strengthened throughout the health care and public health systems.

HPV Vaccination Adherence in Working-Age Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most common sexually transmitted viral infection in the world. HPV vaccination adherence rates in men are generally lower than in women. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess adherence to HPV vaccination in young working-age males (18-30 years old).

METHODS

A systematic review was performed using three databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA).

RESULTS

After duplicate removal, the initial search resulted in 478 eligible papers. With the exclusion of 425 papers after screening the abstracts, full texts of 53 articles were reviewed. Subsequently, 45 were excluded. Among the eight studies included, four (50%) examined the vaccination adherence in young adults through data registered in nationwide insurance or private companies' databases, three (37.5%) in young adults in different settings through data collected from surveys and questionnaires, and one (12.5%) an HPV vaccination campaign in a family medicine residency practice.

CONCLUSION

Adherence to HPV vaccination in men of working age (18-30 years) does not appear to be adequate (pooled prevalence 11%). In order to achieve a higher level of compliance, it is important to place an emphasis on vaccination campaigns in schools as well as in the workplace, after consultation with and approval from local, regional, and federal public health agencies.

Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Differences in Influenza, Shingles, and Pneumococcal Vaccination Among U.S. Older Adults

Purpose: LGBT older adults face challenges accessing and receiving culturally competent health care and may be more vulnerable to serious outcomes from vaccine-preventable diseases. This study examines whether sexual orientation and gender identity are associated with older adult influenza, zoster ("shingles"), and pneumococcal vaccine uptake. Methods: Data come from the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. The sample included older adults aged 50+ (eligible for influenza and shingles vaccination; n = 136,528) and 65+ (eligible for pneumococcal vaccination; n = 74,779). We calculated rates of influenza, shingles, and pneumococcal vaccine uptake by gender-stratified sexual orientation groups and for transgender versus cisgender populations. Logistic regression models tested for associations between sexual orientation, gender identity, and vaccine uptake, controlling for key sociodemographic characteristics. Results: Transgender adults had the lowest rates of uptake across all three vaccines, including 46% lower odds of shingles vaccination and 61% lower odds of pneumococcal vaccination, when compared with cisgender adults. Gay (vs. straight) men had 1.5-1.9 times greater odds of flu and shingles vaccination. Bisexual (vs. straight) women had 32% lower odds of flu vaccination. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that vaccine uptake among LGBT older adults varies by sexual orientation, gender identity, and vaccine type. Bisexual women and transgender people are groups that tend to underutilize health care services and are at increased risk of nonvaccination, making them important targets for older adult vaccine promotion.

Wide Variability in Documentation of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Preventive Health Screenings in a Diverse Sample of U.S. Community Health Centers

Purpose: This study was conducted to characterize documentation of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) and provision of screening and preventive services in a diverse sample of community health centers (CHCs). Methods: Twelve CHCs provided data submitted to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) in 2018 from their Uniform Data System (UDS) reports. Prevalence of SOGI documentation, screenings, and preventive services were calculated. Sociodemographic correlates of documentation were analyzed using Fisher's exact test and Wilcoxon rank sum/Mann-Whitney U test. Results: Patient data recording sexual orientation (SO) were missing in 2%-93% of UDS reports from the 12 CHCs, and gender identity (GI) data were missing from 0% to 96% of UDS reports. CHCs were most likely to report body mass index and tobacco screening and least likely to report hepatitis A or B vaccination, independent of SO or GI. Transgender females were less likely to have mammography documented than cisgender females. Transgender males were less likely to have anal Pap tests, be vaccinated for hepatitis B, or be referred for risky alcohol use compared to cisgender males. Patients who identified as "another gender" were less likely to be referred for risky alcohol use, undergo mammography or anal Pap testing, or receive hepatitis A vaccination than cisgender people. Individuals who did not disclose their GI were less likely to be vaccinated for hepatitis A or B than cisgender people. Conclusion: SOGI status was often not documented by a diverse array of CHCs. However, when SOGI status was documented, we saw evidence of disparities in preventive interventions and referrals, particularly for transgender patients. Clinical trial registration number: NCT03554785.

Intersectional Immunity? Examining How Race/Ethnicity and Sexual Orientation Combine to Shape Influenza Vaccination Among US Adults

Influenza vaccination is a critical preventive healthcare behavior designed to prevent spread of seasonal flu. This paper contributes to existing scholarship by applying an intersectional perspective to examine how influenza vaccination differs across specific intersections of racial/ethnic and sexual identity. Drawing on aggregated state-level data from Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) from 2011 to 2020, I examine how flu vaccination differs across 18 racial/ethnic-by-sexual orientation groups (N = 1,986,432). Findings from descriptive analyses and logistic regression modeling demonstrate three key findings. First, it corroborates previous studies of vaccination, finding lower rates of flu vaccination among black adults relative to whites; gays/lesbians vaccinate at higher rates than heterosexuals and bisexuals, with bisexuals reporting lower vaccination relative to both heterosexuals and gays/lesbians. Second, it demonstrates how sexual orientation complicates established patterns between race/ethnicity and vaccination (e.g., influenza vaccination is more racially stratified among heterosexuals, with patterns more variable among gays/lesbians) and how race/ethnicity complicates previous patterns of vaccination by sexual orientation (e.g., Asian bisexuals vaccinate more than both heterosexuals). Third, findings pinpoint identities (e.g., black heterosexuals relative to their white peers and white bisexuals relative to their gay/lesbian peers) most in need of influenza vaccination outreach efforts. Implications for findings suggest that heterosexuals, especially black, may be less likely to vaccinate against influenza thus may need more encouragement from clinicians to vaccinate. Additionally, influenza vaccination should be free for all persons to lessen the barrier of access for this preventative healthcare.

Sexually transmitted infection prevention behaviours: health impact, prevalence, correlates, and interventions

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a major public health threat, disproportionately affecting young people, and men who have sex with men. In this narrative review of the current state of behavioural science research on STI prevention, we consider the definition, health impacts, correlates and determinants, and interventions to promote STI prevention behaviour. Research on STI prevention behaviour has extended from a focus on abstinence, partner reduction and condom use, to also include novel preventive behaviours, notably treatment-as-prevention, pre-exposure prophylaxis (i.e., the preventive use of medicines by uninfected people), and vaccination for some STIs. Social-cognitive factors specified by, for instance the theory of planned behaviour, are critical proximal determinants of STI prevention behaviours, and related interventions can effectively promote STI prevention behaviours. Social-ecological perspectives highlight that individual-level determinants are embedded in more distal environmental influences, with social stigma especially affecting STI prevention behaviours and requiring effective intervention. Further to providing a major domain of application, STI prevention also poses critical challenges and opportunities for health psychology theory and research. We identify a need for health behaviour theory that addresses the processes linking multiple levels of influence on behaviour and provides practical guidance for multi-level behaviour change interventions adapted to specific contexts.

Human papillomavirus vaccination coverage among young, gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men and transgender women - 3 U.S. cities, 2016-2018

Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women are disproportionately affected by human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV vaccination is routinely recommended for U.S. adolescents at age 11-12 years, with catch-up vaccination through age 26 years. We assessed HPV vaccination coverage and associated factors among young MSM and transgender women. The Vaccine Impact in Men study enrolled MSM aged 18-26 years from clinics in Seattle, Chicago, and Los Angeles, during February 2016-September 2018. Participants self-reported socio-demographic information and HPV vaccination status. Among 1416 participants, 673 (47.5%) reported ≥1 HPV vaccine dose. Among vaccinated participants, median age at first dose was 19 years and median age at first sex was 17 years; 493 (73.3%) reported that their age at first dose was older than their age at first sex. There were significant differences in HPV vaccination coverage by city (range 33%-62%), age, race/ethnicity, and gender identity. Coverage was highest in Seattle, where younger age was the only factor associated with vaccination. Differences in coverage by city may be due to variation in vaccination practices or enrollment at study sites. Increasing both routine and catch-up vaccination will improve coverage among MSM and transgender women.

The COVID-19 Pandemic Seen from a Syndemic Perspective: The LGBTQIA2SP+ Community

An adverse condition or a disease can (either directly or indirectly) interact in a synergistic fashion with other adverse conditions or diseases/maladies, and co-cluster together with them: this fundamental observation is at the basis of the term "syndemic" (a portmanteau for "synergistic epidemic") [...].

Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Rates by Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation Among 18-44-Year-Olds in the U.S

In the U.S., human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination has been recommended for individuals up to age 26, although the vaccination is currently approved for all people up to the age of 45. This research sought to explore HPV vaccination disparities by age with subgroup analysis by gender identity and sexual orientation groups, as well as sociodemographic factors that may serve as barriers to or facilitators of vaccination. This study used data from the 2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Only data for individuals who reported their gender identity, sexual orientation, and HPV vaccination status were included in the analytic sample (n = 7330). HPV vaccination rates for this sample were low, as only 18.2% (n = 1332) of the sample had received the HPV vaccination. These low rates of vaccination were similar across all subsamples: cisgender men (9.8%, n = 343), cisgender women (25.8%, n = 985), heterosexuals (17.5%, n = 1197), lesbian women or gay men (20.8%, n = 40), and bisexuals (30.8%, n = 95). In multivariable logistic regression models, younger participants (18-34) were more likely to report receiving the HPV vaccination across all subsamples. Further modeling indicated several common factors associated with higher odds of vaccination: living in a metropolitan area, having insurance coverage, and having at least one provider. Understanding vaccination disparities, as well as vaccination facilitators and barriers, is important to inform policy and program efforts. This is especially significant for adults between the ages of 35 and 44 who were excluded from the initial vaccination recommendations but are vulnerable due to changing cultural norms, including delayed marriage, nonmonogamous long-term relationships, and the ending of long-term partnerships.

Hepatitis A: Epidemiology, High-Risk Groups, Prevention and Research on Antiviral Treatment

The hepatitis A virus (HAV) is a leading cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. It is transmitted mainly by direct contact with patients who have been infected or by ingesting contaminated water or food. The virus is endemic in low-income countries where sanitary and sociodemographic conditions are poor. Paradoxically, improving sanitary conditions in these countries, which reduces the incidence of HAV infections, can lead to more severe disease in susceptible adults. The populations of developed countries are highly susceptible to HAV, and large outbreaks can occur when the virus is spread by globalization and by increased travel and movement of foodstuffs. Most of these outbreaks occur among high-risk groups: travellers, men who have sex with men, people who use substances, and people facing homelessness. Hepatitis A infections can be prevented by vaccination; safe and effective vaccines have been available for decades. Several countries have successfully introduced universal mass vaccination for children, but high-risk groups in high-income countries remain insufficiently protected. The development of HAV antivirals may be important to control HAV outbreaks in developed countries where a universal vaccination programme is not recommended.

Targeting cancer prevention and screening interventions to LGBTQ communities: A scoping review

Although some people within LGBTQ communities are at risk of developing some cancers at higher rates than non-LGBTQ people, there is limited evidence of the outcomes of targeted cancer prevention and screening interventions for these communities. This scoping review examined key findings regarding the feasibility, acceptability and efficacy of evaluated intervention studies conducted in high income settings and published in peer reviewed literature (2014-2020) by combining evidence of both cancer risk-reducing behavioural interventions and screening and preventative practice interventions. While there is limited evidence of stronger outcomes from targeted interventions with cohorts of gender and sexuality diverse communities, compared with the use of mainstream or untailored interventions, there is stronger evidence that targeted interventions are more acceptable to these communities and may be more feasible in some contexts. Thus, there is benefit in understanding what targeting entails in these interventions, and to understand what influences acceptability, to inform the design and delivery of such interventions.

Vaccine acceptability, uptake and completion amongst men who have sex with men: A systematic review, meta-analysis and theoretical framework

BACKGROUND

Due to an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM) have been recommended to receive vaccinations against human papillomavirus, meningitis C and hepatitis A/B. This review aimed to compare the rates of vaccine acceptability, uptake and completion, and to identify determinants of vaccine outcomes specific to MSM to inform a theoretical framework.

METHODS

In January 2020 four databases were explored to identify vaccination behaviours and associated factors among MSM. A narrative systematic review and meta-analysis were performed. Data were synthesised for theoretical modelling.

RESULTS

Seventy-eight studies, mostly from the USA, were included. The average vaccine acceptability was 63% (median = 72%, range: 30%-97%), vaccine uptake 45% (median = 42%, range: 5%-100%) and vaccine completion 47% (median = 45%, range: 12%-89%). Six categories of factors associated with vaccination acceptability, uptake and completion were conceptualised: Individual (e.g., demographic and psychosocial); Interpersonal (e.g., peer education); Healthcare provider (e.g., vaccine recommendation); Organisational and practice setting (e.g., routine collection of patient sexual orientation information that is integrated into a clinical decision support system); Community environment (e.g., targeted health promotion campaigns); and National, state and local policy environment (e.g., public health guidelines targeting MSM).

CONCLUSION

Despite overall high levels of acceptability, uptake and completion rates were below targets predicted by cost-effectiveness modelling across all recommended vaccines. These parameters may need to be adjusted for more precise estimations of cost-effectiveness. Addressing the multiple levels of determinants, as outlined in our theoretical framework, will help guide interventions to increase vaccine completion among MSM.

Disparities in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine initiation and completion based on sexual orientation among women in the United States

OBJECTIVES

We compared HPV vaccine initiation and completion of heterosexual with lesbian and bisexual (LB) women.

METHODS

We aggregated National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data from 2009 to 2016 for 3,017 women aged 18 to 34 y in the United States. HPV vaccine initiation was defined as reported receipt of ≥1 dose of the vaccine and completion as receipt of the three recommended doses. Weighted percentages and multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine differences in HPV vaccine initiation and completion between heterosexual and LB women.

RESULTS

Approximately 12% of respondents self-identified as LB women. Overall, a higher percentage of respondents (26%) had initiated the HPV vaccine than completed the three vaccine doses (17%). In the bivariate analysis, LB women had higher initiation ([35% of LB women versus 25% heterosexual]; p = .0012) and completion rates ([24% of LB women versus 17% heterosexual]; p = .0052) than heterosexual women. After adjusting for covariates, compared to heterosexual women, LB women were 60% (aOR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.16-2.19) more likely to initiate and 63% (aOR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.12-2.37) more likely to complete the HPV vaccine.

CONCLUSIONS

Although LB women had higher likelihood of HPV vaccine initiation and completion compared with heterosexual women, their HPV vaccine uptake was well below the Healthy People 2020 target (80%). Understanding differences in the drivers of vaccine uptake in the LB population may inform strategies that would further increase HPV vaccine uptake toward achieving the 80% completion target.

Evaluation of a Text Messaging-Based Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Intervention for Young Sexual Minority Men: Results from a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at high risk for human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and HPV-related anal cancer. Although a safe and effective vaccine is available to prevent HPV infection, HPV vaccine uptake among young MSM remains low.

PURPOSE

This pilot randomized controlled trial tested the acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy of a text messaging-based HPV vaccination intervention for young sexual minority men.

METHODS

In 2018, unvaccinated sexual minority men aged 18-25 years were recruited from Chicago to participate in a 9 month sexual health program called txt2protect. Participants (N = 150) were randomized to the intervention or control condition. Intervention condition messages focused primarily on HPV vaccination, with only a brief mention of other sexual health practices (e.g., condom use and HIV testing), while control condition messages focused on a variety of sexual health practices with only a brief mention of HPV vaccination. Participants received daily text messages for the first 3 weeks and monthly text messages for the remaining ~8 months of the trial. Participants completed surveys at baseline and 3 week and 9 month follow-ups.

RESULTS

Participants reported high satisfaction with the intervention. Although trial retention was high (with over 88% completing the 9 month survey), the study fell short of meeting its recruitment goal. HPV vaccine series initiation was significantly higher among intervention participants (19.4%) compared to control participants (6.6%), odds ratio = 3.43, 95% confidence interval: 1.17, 10.08.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest that txt2protect is an acceptable and potentially promising intervention for increasing HPV vaccine initiation among young sexual minority men.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT02994108.

Prevention of Hepatitis A Virus Infection in the United States: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, 2020

HEPATITIS A IS A VACCINE-PREVENTABLE, COMMUNICABLE DISEASE OF THE LIVER CAUSED BY THE HEPATITIS A VIRUS (HAV). THE INFECTION IS TRANSMITTED VIA THE FECAL-ORAL ROUTE, USUALLY FROM DIRECT PERSON-TO-PERSON CONTACT OR CONSUMPTION OF CONTAMINATED FOOD OR WATER. HEPATITIS A IS AN ACUTE, SELF-LIMITED DISEASE THAT DOES NOT RESULT IN CHRONIC INFECTION. HAV ANTIBODIES (IMMUNOGLOBULIN G [IGG] ANTI-HAV) PRODUCED IN RESPONSE TO HAV INFECTION PERSIST FOR LIFE AND PROTECT AGAINST REINFECTION; IGG ANTI-HAV PRODUCED AFTER VACCINATION CONFER LONG-TERM IMMUNITY. THIS REPORT SUPPLANTS AND SUMMARIZES PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON IMMUNIZATION PRACTICES (ACIP) REGARDING THE PREVENTION OF HAV INFECTION IN THE UNITED STATES. ACIP RECOMMENDS ROUTINE VACCINATION OF CHILDREN AGED 12-23 MONTHS AND CATCH-UP VACCINATION FOR CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS AGED 2-18 YEARS WHO HAVE NOT PREVIOUSLY RECEIVED HEPATITIS A (HEPA) VACCINE AT ANY AGE. ACIP RECOMMENDS HEPA VACCINATION FOR ADULTS AT RISK FOR HAV INFECTION OR SEVERE DISEASE FROM HAV INFECTION AND FOR ADULTS REQUESTING PROTECTION AGAINST HAV WITHOUT ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF A RISK FACTOR. THESE RECOMMENDATIONS ALSO PROVIDE GUIDANCE FOR VACCINATION BEFORE TRAVEL, FOR POSTEXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS, IN SETTINGS PROVIDING SERVICES TO ADULTS, AND DURING OUTBREAKS.

Cancer Screening and Prevention in Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered Community and Asian Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered Members

Participation in cancer screening and prevention (cessation of or reduction in modifiable health risk behaviors) are the most effective methods of reducing cancer morbidity and mortality. Some members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered (LGBT) communities have not participated in screening for a variety of reasons which have been explored in the literature. Common and unique behavioral risks are also reviewed. Knowledge about Asian members of the LGBT community participation in cancer screening and prevention is limited. This paper reviews the current literature on participation and barriers to cancer screening and prevention for the LGBT community and provides some insights for the Asian LGBT subcommunity. Potential interventions that have been demonstrated to be effective are presented for potential implementation within nursing practice and practice settings. Suggestions for future research are also provided to enhance the care of the LGBT community.

The biological basis of sexual orientation: How hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors influence to whom we are sexually attracted

Humans develop relatively stable attractions to sexual partners during maturation and present a spectrum of sexual orientation from homosexuality to heterosexuality encompassing varying degrees of bisexuality, with some individuals also displaying asexuality. Sexual orientation represents a basic life phenomenon for humans. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these diverse traits of sexual orientation remain highly controversial. In this review, we systematically discuss recent advancements in sexual orientation research, including those related to measurements and associated brain regions. Current findings regarding sexual orientation modulation by hormonal, genetic, maternal immune system, and environmental factors are summarized in both human and model systems. We also emphasize that future studies should recognize the differences between males and females and pay more attention to minor traits and the epigenetic regulation of sexual orientation. A comprehensive view of sexual orientation may promote our understanding of the biological basis of sex, and that of human reproduction, and evolution.

A Qualitative Analysis of Young Sexual Minority Men's Perspectives on Human Papillomavirus Vaccination

Purpose: Men who have sex with men (MSM) are affected disproportionately by cancers caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). A safe and effective vaccine is available to prevent HPV infection, yet rates of HPV vaccination among young MSM are low. Guided by the Information, Motivation, and Behavioral Skills model, the purpose of this study was to identify young sexual minority men's perspectives on HPV vaccination. Methods: Men (N = 29) 18-26 years of age, who identified as gay, bisexual, or queer, completed a semistructured interview. Vaccinated (n = 9) and unvaccinated men (n = 20) were interviewed. The interview assessed knowledge, motivation, and behavioral skills related to HPV vaccination as well as relevant contextual factors (e.g., provider recommendation). Interviews were coded for recurring themes. Results: Most participants were aware of HPV and the HPV vaccine; however, misconceptions and knowledge gaps were common with many believing that HPV vaccination was only for women. Motivational factors included perceived advantages (e.g., reducing risk of HPV-related disease) and disadvantages (e.g., stigma) of HPV vaccination, perceived threat of HPV-related disease, and subjective norms for HPV vaccination. Relevant behavioral skills included disclosure of sexual orientation and comfort discussing HPV vaccination. Concerns about vaccine cost, access, and convenience were salient barriers to initiating and completing the series. Encouragement from a health care provider was cited as the primary reason for receiving the HPV vaccine. Conclusion: When developing interventions to increase HPV vaccination among young sexual minority men, it is important to address facilitators and barriers that reflect the unique needs of this population.