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Mo PKH, Xin M, Wang Z, Lau JTF, Ye X, Hui KH, Yu FY, Lee HH. Patterns of sex behaviors and factors associated with condomless anal intercourse during the COVID-19 pandemic among men who have sex with men in Hong Kong: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300988. [PMID: 38573984 PMCID: PMC10994335 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The present study examined the patterns of sex behaviors before and during COVID-19, and identified the factors associated with condomless anal intercourse during COVID-19 from individual, interpersonal, and contextual level among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Hong Kong. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among MSM in Hong Kong. A total of 463 MSM completed a cross-sectional telephone survey between March 2021 and January 2022. RESULTS Among all participants, the mean number of regular sex partners, non-regular sex partners, and casual sex partners during the COVID-19 period were 1.24, 2.09, and 0.08 respectively. Among those who had sex with regular, non-regular, and casual sex partner during the COVID-19 period, respectively 52.4%, 31.8% and 46.7% reported condomless anal intercourse. Compared to the pre-COVID-19 period, participants reported significantly fewer number of regular and non-regular sex partners during the COVID-19 period. However, a higher level of condomless anal intercourse with all types of sex partners during the COVID-19 period was also observed. Adjusted for significant socio-demographic variables, results from logistic regression analyses revealed that perceived severity of COVID-19 (aOR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.58, 0.88), COVID-19 risk reduction behaviors in general (aOR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.48, 0.96), COVID-19 risk reduction behaviors during sex encounters (aOR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.30, 0.66), condom negotiation (aOR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.44, 0.86), and collective efficacy (aOR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.64, 0.98) were protective factors of condomless anal intercourse with any type of sex partners during the COVID-19 period. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 control measures have caused a dramatic impact on the sexual behavior of MSM in Hong Kong. Interventions that promote condom use during the COVID-19 pandemic are still needed and such interventions could emphasize prevention of both COVID-19 and HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoenix K. H. Mo
- Center for Health Behaviours Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Meiqi Xin
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zixin Wang
- Center for Health Behaviours Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Joseph T. F. Lau
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinchen Ye
- Center for Health Behaviours Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kam Hei Hui
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Fuk Yuen Yu
- Center for Health Behaviours Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ho Hin Lee
- Center for Health Behaviours Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Mann LM, Le Guillou A, Goodreau SM, Marcus JL, Sanchez T, Weiss KM, Jenness SM. Correlations between community-level HIV preexposure prophylaxis coverage and individual-level sexual behaviors among United States MSM. AIDS 2022; 36:2015-2023. [PMID: 35876641 PMCID: PMC9617766 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate if community-level HIV PrEP coverage is correlated with individual sexual behaviors. DESIGN We used demographic, behavioral, and sexual network data from ARTnet, a 2017-2019 study of United States MSM. METHODS Multivariable regression models with a Bayesian modeling framework were used to estimate associations between area-level PrEP coverage and seven sexual behavior outcomes [number of total, main, and casual male partners (network degree); count of one-time partnerships; consistent condom use in one-time partnerships; and frequency of casual partnership anal sex (total and condomless)], controlling for individual PrEP use. RESULTS PrEP coverage ranged from 10.3% (Philadelphia) to 38.9% (San Francisco). Total degree was highest in Miami (1.35) and lowest in Denver (0.78), while the count of one-time partners was highest in San Francisco (11.7/year) and lowest in Detroit (1.5/year). Adjusting for individual PrEP use and demographics, community PrEP coverage correlated with total degree [adjusted incidence rate ratio (aIRR) = 1.73; 95% credible interval (CrI), 0.92-3.44], casual degree (aIRR = 2.05; 95% CrI, 0.90-5.07), and count of one-time partnerships (aIRR = 1.90; 95% CrI, 0.46-8.54). Without adjustment for individual PrEP use, these associations strengthened. There were weaker or no associations with consistent condom use in one-time partnerships (aIRR = 1.68; 95% CrI, 0.86-3.35), main degree (aIRR = 1.21; 95% CrI, 0.48-3.20), and frequency of casual partnership condomless anal sex (aIRR = 0.23; 95% CrI, 0.01-3.60). CONCLUSION Most correlations between community PrEP coverage and sexual behavior were explained by individual PrEP use. However, some residual associations remained after controlling for individual PrEP use, suggesting that PrEP coverage may partially drive community-level differences in sexual behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Mann
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Adrien Le Guillou
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Research and Public Health, Reims Teaching Hospitals, Robert Debré Hospital, Reims, France
| | - Steven M Goodreau
- Department of Anthropology and Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Julia L Marcus
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Travis Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Kevin M Weiss
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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Schneider JA, Bouris A. Ryan White programming that primarily supports clinical care falls short when core people needs are not met: further evidence from the medical monitoring project. AIDS 2022; 36:1453-1456. [PMID: 35876703 PMCID: PMC9521181 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John A. Schneider
- Crown School of Social Work Practice and Policy, University of
Chicago
| | - Alida Bouris
- Crown School of Social Work Practice and Policy, University of
Chicago
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Tsuyuki K, Stockman JK, Stadnick NA, Moore V, Zhu H, Torres V, Cano R, Penninga K, Aldous JL. Proyecto Compadre: Using Implementation Science to Tailor Peer Navigation for Latino Men in the US-Mexico Border Region. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 90:S98-S104. [PMID: 35703761 PMCID: PMC9220980 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Latino men who have sex with men (MSM) in San Diego have poor HIV testing and prevention outcomes compared with non-Latino White men. Peer navigation (PN) is a promising evidence-based intervention to reduce disparities but needs tailoring for Latino MSM. SETTINGS Health centers near the US-Mexico border. METHODS Using the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment Framework, we conducted mixed-methods implementation science study. In phase I, we conducted interviews with Latino men (n = 15), focus groups with staff (n = 7), and surveys with all to understand the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment factors associated with HIV testing and care linkage. In phase II, we conducted 31 web-based surveys with Latino men and staff to rank intervention and implementation strategies from phase I. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, integrated with qualitative data, and reviewed by our community-academic partnership to develop an implementation model. RESULTS Latino men (N = 15) were 94% Spanish speaking, 67% gay identified, 27% US born, and their suggestions were to have navigators use peer referral to address barriers such as stigma; use the Latino social network to expand reach, leverage social media for peer-led intervention, and disseminate HIV information. Staff (N = 26) were 77% Spanish speaking, 35% gay-identified, 96% trained in cultural competency, and suggested including culturally appropriate HIV educational materials in Spanish, status and identity neutral programs, administrative/supervisorial/training structure for PNs, and PN compensation and team integration. Overall, results emphasized a need for a formalized PN model centered on referrals and using existing Latino community social networks. CONCLUSIONS Findings can be packaged for future implementation of PN programs for Latino MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyomi Tsuyuki
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego (9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA)
| | - Jamila K. Stockman
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego (9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA)
| | | | | | - Helen Zhu
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego (9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA)
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5
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Beyrer C, Malone J, Baral S, Wang Z, Rio CD, Mayer KH, Batey DS, Farley J, Gamble T, Stanton J, Hughes JP, Wilson E, Irvin R, Guevara-Perez O, Bocek A, Bruce J, Gaston R, Cummings V, Remien RH. Comparing recruitment strategies to engage hard-to-reach men who have sex with men living with HIV with unsuppressed viral loads in four US cities: Results from HPTN 078. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25798. [PMID: 34473400 PMCID: PMC8412086 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction There is an urgent need to identify men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV with unsuppressed viral loads to prevent transmission. Though respondent‐driven sampling (RDS) is traditionally used for hard‐to‐reach populations, we compare how RDS and direct recruitment (DR) perform in identifying MSM living with HIV with unsuppressed viral loads and identifying MSM with socio‐demographics characteristic of hard‐to‐reach populations. Methods This is a cross‐sectional analysis among 1305 MSM who were recruited from March 2016 to December 2017 for a case management intervention trial (HPTN 078). We recruited participants across four cities using RDS and DR methods: Birmingham, AL; Atlanta, GA; Baltimore, MD; and Boston, MA. Participants completed a socio‐demographic questionnaire and underwent HIV testing. We compare the proportion of MSM with HIV and unsuppressed viral loads (HIV RNA ≥ 1000 copies/ml) based on recruitment method using Pearson chi‐square tests. We also compare differences in race, income, healthcare coverage, education, sexual orientation, hidden sexuality and comfort with participating in the LGBT community between recruitment methods and perform non‐parametric trend tests to see how demographics change across RDS recruitment waves. Results RDS recruited 721 men (55.2%) and DR yielded 584 men (44.8%). Overall, 69% were living with HIV, of whom 18% were not virally suppressed. HIV prevalence was higher among those recruited via DR (84%) compared to RDS (58%), p < 0.0001. Twenty per cent of DR recruits were not virally suppressed compared to 15% of RDS, though this was not significant. DR yielded a significantly higher proportion of Black participants and those with less than a high school diploma. The prevalence of low income, no healthcare coverage, bisexuality and hidden sexuality increased across RDS waves. Conclusions DR was more efficient in identifying MSM living with HIV with unsuppressed viral loads; however, there was a higher proportion of hard‐to‐reach MSM who were low income, lacked health coverage, were bisexual and were not open with their sexuality in deeper waves of RDS. Researchers should consider supplementing RDS recruitment with DR efforts if aiming to identify MSM with unsuppressed viral loads via RDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Beyrer
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jowanna Malone
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Zhe Wang
- StatisticalCenter for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Carlos Del Rio
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory Center for AIDS Research, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,The Fenway Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - D Scott Batey
- Department of Social Work, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jason Farley
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Theresa Gamble
- HPTN Leadership and Operations Center, FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jill Stanton
- HPTN Leadership and Operations Center, FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - James P Hughes
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Vaccine and Infectious Diseases Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ethan Wilson
- StatisticalCenter for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Risha Irvin
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Adam Bocek
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Josh Bruce
- Department of Social Work, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Ronald Gaston
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory Center for AIDS Research, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Vanessa Cummings
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Robert H Remien
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, NY State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
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- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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6
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Ayer A, Segura ER, Perez-Brumer A, Chavez-Gomez S, Fernandez R, Gutierrez J, Suárez K, Lake JE, Clark JL, Cabello R. Sexual health norms and communication patterns within the close social networks of men who have sex with men and transgender women in Lima, Peru: a 2017 cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1090. [PMID: 34098916 PMCID: PMC8186208 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11091-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social networks, norms, and discussions about sexual health may inform sexual practices, influencing risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or sexually transmitted infection (STI) acquisition. To better understand social networks of Peruvian men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (trans women), we examined key social network members (SNMs), participant perceptions of these network members' opinions toward sexual health behaviors, and associations between network member characteristics and condomless anal intercourse (CAI). METHODS In a 2017 cross-sectional study, a convenience sample of 565 MSM and trans women with HIV-negative or unknown serostatus was asked to identify three close SNMs; describe discussions about HIV and STI prevention with each; and report perceived opinions of condom use, HIV/STI testing, and partner notification of STIs. Generalized estimating equations evaluated relationships between SNM characteristics, opinions, and discussions and participant-reported CAI. RESULTS Among participants who identified as MSM, 42.3% of key SNMs were perceived to identify as gay. MSM "never" discussed HIV and STI prevention concerns with 42.4% of heterosexual SNMs, but discussed them "at least once weekly" with 16.9 and 16.6% of gay- and bisexual- identifying SNMs, respectively. Among participants who identified as trans women, 28.2% of key SNMs were perceived as heterosexual; 25.9%, as bisexual; 24.7%, as transgender; and 21.2%, as gay. Trans women discussed HIV/STI prevention least with cis-gender heterosexual network members (40.2% "never") and most with transgender network members (27.1% "at least once weekly"). Participants perceived most of their close social network to be completely in favor of condom use (71.2% MSM SNMs, 61.5% trans women SNMs) and HIV/STI testing (73.1% MSM SNMs, 75.6% trans women SNMs), but described less support for partner STI notification (33.4% MSM SNMs, 37.4% trans women SNMs). Most participants reported CAI with at least one of their past three sexual partners (77.5% MSM, 62.8% trans women). SNM characteristics were not significantly associated with participant-reported frequency of CAI. CONCLUSIONS Findings compare social support, perceived social norms, and discussion patterns of Peruvian MSM and trans women, offering insight into social contexts and sexual behaviors. TRIAL REGISTRATION The parent study from which this analysis was derived was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT03010020 ) on January 4, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrita Ayer
- South American Program in HIV Prevention Research, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, CHS 37-121, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA. .,University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Eddy R Segura
- South American Program in HIV Prevention Research, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, CHS 37-121, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.,Escuela de Medicina, Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas, Lima, Peru
| | - Amaya Perez-Brumer
- University of Toronto Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Toronto, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Jordan E Lake
- South American Program in HIV Prevention Research, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, CHS 37-121, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, McGovern Medical School at UT Health, Houston, USA
| | - Jesse L Clark
- South American Program in HIV Prevention Research, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, CHS 37-121, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Robinson Cabello
- South American Program in HIV Prevention Research, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, CHS 37-121, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.,Asociación Civil Via Libre, Lima, Peru
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7
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Networks Among Racial and Ethnic Minority Men Who Have Sex With Men in HIV Research in the United States: A Concept Analysis. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2020; 31:379-391. [PMID: 31985510 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In the past 10 years, research has proliferated investigating the effects of sexual and social networks on the transmission of HIV, especially among racial/ethnic minority men who have sex with men (MSM). This research, however, has been inconsistent in its application of social network theory leading to variations in the measurement of networks and a lack of clarity in the interpretation of results from studies of network data. Efforts to delineate how networks are defined, measured, and interpreted are needed to advance the science of HIV prevention and promote health equity. The aims of this article are to review the literature around networks among racial/ethnic minority MSM, use concept analysis methods to clarify the definition and scope of the concept of networks, and to develop a network typology that can be used to guide measurement and interpretation of networks for HIV research with racial/ethnic minority MSM.
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8
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Bonett S, Meanley S, Stevens R, Brawner B, Bauermeister J. The Role of Networks in Racial Disparities in HIV Incidence Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in the United States. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:2781-2796. [PMID: 31980994 PMCID: PMC7222153 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02798-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Network factors have been proposed as potential drivers of racial disparities in HIV among Black and Latino men who have sex with men (MSM). This review aimed to synthesize the extant literature on networks and racial disparities in HIV among MSM and identify potential directions for future research. We searched databases for peer-reviewed articles published between January 1, 2008 and July 1, 2018. Articles were included if the sample was comprised primarily of racial/ethnic minority MSM and measured one or more network characteristics. (n = 25). HIV prevalence in networks, social support, and structural barriers were linked to disparities in HIV for Black MSM. Future research should focus on intervention development around social support and other strategies for risk reduction within networks. Given the contribution of structural factors to racial/ethnic HIV disparities, network-level interventions should be paired with policies that improve access to housing, jobs, and education for MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Bonett
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd, Suite 222L, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Steven Meanley
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd, Suite 222L, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Robin Stevens
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd, Suite 222L, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Bridgette Brawner
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd, Suite 222L, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - José Bauermeister
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd, Suite 222L, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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9
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Westmoreland DA, D’Angelo A, Nash D, Grov C. Individual and Partner Characteristics Associated With Intentions to Use PrEP Among Partnered Men, Trans Men, and Trans Women in Sero-Concordant and -Discordant Relationships in the United States. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2020; 32:367-377. [PMID: 33112677 PMCID: PMC7597370 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2020.32.5.367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Despite proven effectiveness in reducing HIV transmission, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use remains low among those who meet the recommended CDC guidance for PrEP use. Data are from a U.S. national cohort of men and trans persons who have sex with men (2017-2018). Logistic regression analyses were used to determine individual and partner factors associated with intentions to use PrEP among non-PrEP-using participants reporting a main partner (n = 1,671). Prior PrEP use among participants (14.2%) and their partners (7.7%) was low. Participants' prior PrEP use and main partner's HIV-positive status were both positively associated with intentions to use PrEP. HIV prevention interventions incorporating main partners may be effective in increasing PrEP use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew A. Westmoreland
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Alexa D’Angelo
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, New York, USA
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, New York, USA
| | - Denis Nash
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, New York, USA
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, New York, USA
| | - Christian Grov
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, New York, USA
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, New York, USA
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10
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The Role of Social Support in HIV Testing and PrEP Awareness among Young Black Men and Transgender Women Who Have Sex with Men or Transgender Women. J Urban Health 2020; 97:715-727. [PMID: 31898199 PMCID: PMC7560661 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-019-00396-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Young black men and transgender women (transwomen) who have sex with men or transwomen are most vulnerable in terms of risk for HIV infection, also reflected in their extremely high incidence rates. As testing rates and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake remain suboptimal among these groups, primarily due to unique structural barriers, the present analyses draw on data from an online survey, administered October 2014 to August 2015, to explore social support-related predictors of knowledge and behavior around HIV prevention.Participants were 169 biological men who identified as black, with a mean age of 24 (SD = 2.97, range 17-29); 8% identified as transwomen. Logistic regression models assessed whether HIV-related social support predicted HIV testing patterns, PrEP awareness, and use. Those with higher HIV-related social support reported having been more likely to have ever tested (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.48; p < 0.001) and tested in the past 6 months (aOR = 1.22; p < 0.01). They were also more likely to intend to test in the next 6 months (aOR = 1.16; p < 0.001), including at a medical office or community-based organization (aOR = 1.20; p < 0.001), yet less likely to intend to self-test (aOR = 0.81; p < 0.001). Lastly, higher social support was significantly associated with prior knowledge of self-testing (aOR = 1.19; p < 0.05), couples testing (aOR = 1.26; p < 0.001), and PrEP (aOR = 1.22; p < 0.01), as well as prevention self-efficacy (aOR = 1.30; p < 0.001), but inversely associated with prior self-testing (aOR = 0.80; p < 0.05). For young black men and transwomen who have sex with men or transwomen, HIV-related social support, which likely has a strong peer component, appears to be a facilitator of optimal testing and intentions to test, as well as awareness of novel prevention strategies (like self-testing or PrEP). However, community resourcefulness needs to be bolstered by other mechanisms, such as changes within healthcare settings, to increase actual use of novel prevention modalities.
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11
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Diaz JE, Schrimshaw EW, Tieu HV, Nandi V, Koblin BA, Frye V. Acculturation as a Moderator of HIV Risk Behavior Correlates Among Latino Men Who Have Sex with Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:2029-2043. [PMID: 31858309 PMCID: PMC7302998 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01604-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Acculturation is associated with increased sexual risk behaviors among heterosexual Latinos, but its influence among Latino gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) remains less clear. Elements of acculturation may create distinct lived experiences among sexual minority Latinos, moderating how beneficial and adverse influences contribute to their sexual risk behaviors. Latino MSM living in New York City (n = 412) were recruited using a modified time-space venue- and web-based sampling method. Negative binomial regression models estimated associations between indicators of acculturation (i.e., language use, nativity status, ethnic identification), sexual minority stressors (i.e., internalized homophobia, sexual orientation-based discrimination), peer condom use norms, and the number of serodiscordant condomless anal intercourse (SDCAI) encounters. Acculturation indicators were then tested as simultaneous moderators of the influence of each predictor variable on the outcome. The association between internalized homophobia and SDCAI was significant only among English language speakers (aIRR = 3.05 [2.13, 4.37]) and those born outside of the U.S. (foreign-born = 0, aIRR = 0.17 [0.08, 0.36]). Sexual orientation-based discrimination and SDCAI were also positively associated among both English-speaking (aIRR = 1.82 [1.22, 2.72]) and foreign-born men (aIRR = 0.34 [0.14, 0.84]). Stronger ethnic identification also moderated the protective effects of peer condom use norms on SDCAI (aIRR = 0.28 [0.15, 0.52]). Results suggest that different dimensions of acculturation help shape how both stressors and protective factors influence HIV risk among Latino MSM. Future research is needed to examine the mechanisms through which these differences in acculturation may act on sexual risk behaviors among Latino MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- José E Diaz
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 722 West 168th Street, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Eric W Schrimshaw
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hong-Van Tieu
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vijay Nandi
- Laboratory of Data Analytic Services, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Beryl A Koblin
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Victoria Frye
- Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Laboratory of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York, NY, USA
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12
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Quinn KG, Christenson E, Spector A, Amirkhanian Y, Kelly JA. The Influence of Peers on PrEP Perceptions and Use Among Young Black Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Qualitative Examination. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:2129-2143. [PMID: 32016815 PMCID: PMC7321862 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01593-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a promising part of HIV prevention, yet racial disparities in PrEP uptake persist. Evidence indicates that Black gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) face numerous social and structural barriers to PrEP, including stigma, medical mistrust, and exclusion from the healthcare system. However, little research has examined how social networks can influence PrEP use and help Black GBM overcome these identified barriers. To understand the influence of peers and social networks on Black GBM's perceptions of and decisions about PrEP use, we conducted in-depth interviews with 46 Black GBM in Milwaukee, WI and Cleveland, OH. Data were analyzed using multistage inductive coding and thematic content analysis, using MAXQDA software. Results indicate that participants' primary source of information on PrEP was other Black GBM in their communities. Peers and social networks served three primary functions with regard to PrEP: (1) filling informational gaps left by healthcare providers, (2) increasing trust of PrEP, and (3) reducing PrEP stigma. Participants described the "movers and shakers" in Black LGBT communities who have been influential in educating others and advocating for PrEP. Well-respected vocal advocates for PrEP have emerged in the Black LGBT community as PrEP champions who have successfully influenced young Black GBM's views on PrEP. Our results reveal the role social networks and peer groups can play in increasing PrEP use among Black GBM. Social network interventions may help overcome the stigma and mistrust that are contributing to PrEP disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine G Quinn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA.
| | - Erika Christenson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
| | - Antoinette Spector
- Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Yuri Amirkhanian
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Kelly
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
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13
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English D, Hickson DA, Callander D, Goodman MS, Duncan DT. Racial Discrimination, Sexual Partner Race/Ethnicity, and Depressive Symptoms Among Black Sexual Minority Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:1799-1809. [PMID: 32222852 PMCID: PMC7340340 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01647-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Although racial sexual exclusivity among Black gay, bisexual, and other sexual minority men (SMM) is frequently framed as a cause of HIV inequities, little research has examined how these sexual relationships may be driven by and protective against racism. This study examined associations between general racial discrimination, Black sexual exclusivity, sexual racial discrimination, and depressive symptoms among Black SMM. We conducted analyses on cross-sectional self-report data from 312 cisgender Black SMM in the U.S. Deep South who participated in the MARI study. Measures included general racial and sexual identity discrimination, race/ethnicity of sexual partners, sexual racial discrimination, and depressive symptoms. We estimated a moderated-mediation model with associations from discrimination to Black sexual exclusivity, moderated by discrimination target, from Black sexual exclusivity to sexual racial discrimination, and from sexual racial discrimination to depressive symptoms. We tested an indirect effect from racial discrimination to depressive symptoms to examine whether Black sexual exclusivity functioned as an intervening variable in the associations between racial discrimination and depressive symptoms. Results indicated that participants who experienced racial discrimination were more likely to exclusively have sex with Black men. Men with higher Black sexual exclusivity were less likely to experience sexual racial discrimination and, in turn, reported lower depressive symptoms. The indirect pathway from racial discrimination to depressive symptoms through Black sexual exclusivity and sexual racial discrimination was significant. Our results suggest that one of the drivers of sexual exclusivity among Black SMM may be that it helps to protect against the caustic psychological effects of racial discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin English
- Rutgers School of Public Health, One Riverfront Plaza, Suite 1020 (10th Floor), Newark, NJ, 07102-0301, USA.
| | | | | | - Melody S Goodman
- New York University College of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
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14
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Palacios R, Mathias A. Learning from combination HIV prevention programmes to face COVID-19 emerging pandemic. Colomb Med (Cali) 2020; 51:e4276. [PMID: 33012888 PMCID: PMC7518725 DOI: 10.25100/cm.v51i2.4276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Before a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 became available, several measures to control COVID-19 pandemic are necessary. Analogously, in the absence of an available vaccine, Combination HIV Prevention Programmes have consolidated a large experience of biomedical, behavioral and structural interventions suitable for several epidemiological settings. Adaptation of such experiences can organize mid-term and long-term responses to face COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Palacios
- Instituto Butantan, Clinical Trials and Pharmacovigilance Center, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Augusto Mathias
- Universidade de São Paulo, School of Medicine, Department of Preventive Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
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15
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Doshi M, Macharia P, Mathenge J, Musyoki H, Amico KR, Battacharjee P, Blanchard J, Reza-Paul S, McKinnon LR, Kimani J, Lorway RR. Beyond biomedical and comorbidity approaches: Exploring associations between affinity group membership, health and health seeking behaviour among MSM/MSW in Nairobi, Kenya. Glob Public Health 2020; 15:968-984. [PMID: 32172670 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2020.1739729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
We explored general health and psychosocial characteristics among male sex workers and other men who have sex with men in Nairobi, Kenya. A total of 595 MSM/MSW were recruited into the study. We assessed group differences among those who self-reported HIV positive (SR-HIVP) and those who self-reported HIV negative (SR-HIVN) and by affinity group membership. Quality of life among SR-HIVP participants was significantly worse compared to SR-HIVN participants. Independent of HIV status and affinity group membership, participants reported high levels of hazardous alcohol use, harmful substance use, recent trauma and childhood abuse. The overall sample exhibited higher prevalence of moderate to severe depressive symptoms compared to the general population. Quality of life among participants who did not report affinity group membership (AGN) was significantly worse compared to participants who reported affinity group membership (AGP). AGN participants also reported significantly lower levels of social support. Membership in affinity groups was found to influence health seeking behaviour. Our findings suggest that we need to expand the mainstay biomedical and comorbidity focused research currently associated with MSM/MSW. Moreover, there are benefits to being part of MSM/MSW organisations and these organisations can potentially play a vital role in the health and well-being of MSM/MSW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Doshi
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Pascal Macharia
- Health Options for Young Men on HIV/AIDS/STI (HOYMAS), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - John Mathenge
- Health Options for Young Men on HIV/AIDS/STI (HOYMAS), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Helgar Musyoki
- National AIDS and STI Control Programme, Ministry of Health, Government of Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - K Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Parinita Battacharjee
- The Centre for Global Public Health, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - James Blanchard
- The Centre for Global Public Health, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Sushena Reza-Paul
- The Centre for Global Public Health, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Lyle R McKinnon
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.,Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa.,Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joshua Kimani
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.,Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Robert R Lorway
- The Centre for Global Public Health, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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16
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Teixeira da Silva D, Bouris A, Voisin D, Hotton A, Brewer R, Schneider J. Social Networks Moderate the Syndemic Effect of Psychosocial and Structural Factors on HIV Risk Among Young Black Transgender Women and Men who have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:192-205. [PMID: 31289985 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02575-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The interaction between the cumulative effect of psychosocial and structural factors (i.e. syndemic effect) and social networks among young Black transgender women and men who have sex with men (YBTM) remains understudied. A representative cohort of 16-29 year-old YBTM (n = 618) was assessed for syndemic factors [i.e. substance use; community violence; depression; poverty; justice system involvement (JSI)], social network characteristics, condomless anal sex (CAS), group sex (GS), and HIV-infection. The syndemic index significantly increased the odds of CAS, GS, and HIV-infection, and these effects were moderated by network characteristics. Network JSI buffered the effect on CAS, romantic network members buffered the effect on GS, and network age and proportion of family network members buffered the effect on HIV-infection. The proportion of friend network members augmented the effect on GS and HIV-infection. Future research to prevent HIV among YBTM should consider social network approaches that target both structural and psychosocial syndemic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Teixeira da Silva
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Combined Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Chicago, 5841 S Maryland Avenue MC 7082, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Alida Bouris
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dexter Voisin
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Anna Hotton
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - John Schneider
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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17
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Westmoreland DA, Patel VV, D’Angelo AB, Nash D, Grov C. Sociocultural influences on attitudes towards pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), history of PrEP use, and future PrEP use in HIV-vulnerable cisgender men who have sex with men across the U.S. ANNALS OF LGBTQ PUBLIC AND POPULATION HEALTH 2020; 1:128-158. [PMID: 34296211 PMCID: PMC8294708 DOI: 10.1891/lgbtq-2020-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Despite its proven effectiveness in reducing HIV transmission, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use remains low. This study used data from a 2017-2018 U.S. national cohort to investigate social influences on PrEP experience and future PrEP use among cisgender men who have sex with men. We used descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic analyses to examine social influences (e.g., how participants heard about PrEP and number of persons they knew taking PrEP) associated with each previous PrEP use and intentions to use PrEP. Among participants who knew of PrEP, commonly reported ways of first hearing about PrEP were through social media (27.4%) and friends (26.8%). These were also cited top influences on participants' current attitudes toward PrEP (friends 23.5%, social media 22.1%). Multivariable logistic regression analyses found that knowing more people taking PrEP was associated with increased odds of previously using PrEP and intending to use PrEP. Friends and social media were common and influential sources of information regarding PrEP. Results suggest that tapping into these social connections may effectively disseminate public health messaging about PrEP and encourage use among key populations to reduce HIV burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew A. Westmoreland
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Viraj V. Patel
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Montefiore Health System, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Alexa B. D’Angelo
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, New York, USA
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, New York, USA
| | - Denis Nash
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, New York, USA
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, New York, USA
| | - Christian Grov
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, New York, USA
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, New York, USA
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18
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Clark JL, Perez-Brumer AG, Reisner SL, Salazar X, McLean S, Huerta L, Silva-Santisteban A, Moriarty KM, Mimiaga MJ, Sanchez J, Mayer KH, Lama JR. Social Network Organization, Structure, and Patterns of Influence Within a Community of Transgender Women in Lima, Peru: Implications for Biomedical HIV Prevention. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:233-245. [PMID: 30989553 PMCID: PMC6801001 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02506-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Understanding social network structures can contribute to the introduction of new HIV prevention strategies with socially marginalized populations like transgender women (TW). We conducted 20 semi-structured interviews and four focus groups (n = 32) with TW from selected social networks in Lima, Peru between May and July, 2015. Participants described layers of social influence from diverse actors in their social networks. The majority identified a close relative as their primary social support, with whom they confided secrets but avoided issues of transgender identity, sexuality, and sex work. Participants described close circles of TW friends with whom they shared information about gender identity, body modification, and sexual partners, but avoided issues like HIV. Community leadership included political leaders (who advocated for transgender rights) as well as social leaders (who introduced TW to hormone therapy, body modification, and commercial sex). Detailed analysis of TW social networks can contribute to implementation and acceptability of new HIV prevention technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Clark
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Leconte Avenue, CHS 37-121, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | - A G Perez-Brumer
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - S L Reisner
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - X Salazar
- Instituto de Estudios de Sexualidad y Derechos Humanos, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - S McLean
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - L Huerta
- Asociacion Civil Impacta Salud y Educacion, Lima, Peru
| | - A Silva-Santisteban
- Instituto de Estudios de Sexualidad y Derechos Humanos, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - K M Moriarty
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Leconte Avenue, CHS 37-121, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Brown University Alpert School of Medicine, Providence, RI, USA
| | - M J Mimiaga
- Center for Health Equity Research, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Departments of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University Alpert School of Medicine, Providence, RI, USA
| | - J Sanchez
- Asociacion Civil Impacta Salud y Educacion, Lima, Peru
- CITBM, Universidad Nacional Mayor San Marcos, Lima, Peru
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - K H Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - J R Lama
- Asociacion Civil Impacta Salud y Educacion, Lima, Peru
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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19
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Wang Y, Hays RD, Marcus M, Maida CA, Shen J, Xiong D, Coulter ID, Lee SY, Spolsky VW, Crall JJ, Liu H. Developing Children's Oral Health Assessment Toolkits Using Machine Learning Algorithm. JDR Clin Trans Res 2019; 5:233-243. [PMID: 31710817 DOI: 10.1177/2380084419885612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Evaluating children's oral health status and treatment needs is challenging. We aim to build oral health assessment toolkits to predict Children's Oral Health Status Index (COHSI) score and referral for treatment needs (RFTN) of oral health. Parent and Child toolkits consist of short-form survey items (12 for children and 8 for parents) with and without children's demographic information (7 questions) to predict the child's oral health status and need for treatment. METHODS Data were collected from 12 dental practices in Los Angeles County from 2015 to 2016. We predicted COHSI score and RFTN using random Bootstrap samples with manually introduced Gaussian noise together with machine learning algorithms, such as Extreme Gradient Boosting and Naive Bayesian algorithms (using R). The toolkits predicted the probability of treatment needs and the COHSI score with percentile (ranking). The performance of the toolkits was evaluated internally and externally by residual mean square error (RMSE), correlation, sensitivity and specificity. RESULTS The toolkits were developed based on survey responses from 545 families with children aged 2 to 17 y. The sensitivity and specificity for predicting RFTN were 93% and 49% respectively with the external data. The correlation(s) between predicted and clinically determined COHSI was 0.88 (and 0.91 for its percentile). The RMSEs of the COHSI toolkit were 4.2 for COHSI (and 1.3 for its percentile). CONCLUSIONS Survey responses from children and their parents/guardians are predictive for clinical outcomes. The toolkits can be used by oral health programs at baseline among school populations. The toolkits can also be used to quantify differences between pre- and post-dental care program implementation. The toolkits' predicted oral health scores can be used to stratify samples in oral health research. KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER STATEMENT This study creates the oral health toolkits that combine self- and proxy- reported short forms with children's demographic characteristics to predict children's oral health and treatment needs using Machine Learning algorithms. The toolkits can be used by oral health programs at baseline among school populations to quantify differences between pre and post dental care program implementation. The toolkits can also be used to stratify samples according to the treatment needs and oral health status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Division of Public Health and Community Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Urban Health Collaborative, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - R D Hays
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, USA
| | - M Marcus
- Division of Public Health and Community Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - C A Maida
- Division of Public Health and Community Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - J Shen
- Division of Public Health and Community Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - D Xiong
- Department of Biostatistics, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Division of Public Health and Community Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - I D Coulter
- Division of Public Health and Community Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, USA
| | - S Y Lee
- Division of Constitutive & Regenerative Sciences, Section of Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - V W Spolsky
- Division of Public Health and Community Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - J J Crall
- Division of Public Health and Community Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - H Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Division of Public Health and Community Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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20
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Valencia R, Wang LY, Dunville R, Sharma A, Sanchez T, Rosenberg E. Sexual Risk Behaviors in Adolescent Sexual Minority Males: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Prim Prev 2019; 39:619-645. [PMID: 30446869 PMCID: PMC6267112 DOI: 10.1007/s10935-018-0525-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Although adolescent sexual minority males (ASMM) are at increased risk for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the United States (US), studies that estimate sexual risk behaviors that contribute to HIV risk in ASMM are limited. We completed a systematic review and meta-analysis to compile available data and estimate the prevalence of risk behaviors in this population. We searched four databases for key terms related to ASMM, defined as males aged 14 through 19 who identified as gay or bisexual, reported sex with a male in their lifetime, and/or were considered sexual minority by the study. Articles eligible for inclusion were in English, from US studies, and reported quantitative data on sexual risk behaviors among ASMM. We extracted data from eligible articles and meta-analyzed outcomes reported in three or more articles using random effects. Of 3864 articles identified, 21 were eligible for data extraction. We meta-analyzed nine outcomes. Sixty-two percent of adolescent males self-identifying as gay or bisexual ever had sex with a male, and 67% of participants from ASMM studies recently had sex. Among ASMM who had sex in the last 6 months or were described as sexually active, 44% had condomless anal intercourse in the past 6 months, 50% did not use a condom at last sex, and 32% used alcohol or drugs at their last sexual experience. Available data indicate that sexual risk behaviors are prevalent among ASMM. We need more data to obtain estimates with better precision and generalizability. Understanding HIV risk in ASMM will assist in intervention development and evaluation, and inform behavioral mathematical models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Valencia
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Li Yan Wang
- Division of Adolescent and School Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Richard Dunville
- Division of Adolescent and School Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Akshay Sharma
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Travis Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Eli Rosenberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University at Albany School of Public Health, SUNY, Albany, NY, 12144, USA
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21
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Painter TM, Song EY, Mullins MM, Mann-Jackson L, Alonzo J, Reboussin BA, Rhodes SD. Social Support and Other Factors Associated with HIV Testing by Hispanic/Latino Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men in the U.S. South. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:251-265. [PMID: 31102108 PMCID: PMC6800592 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02540-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive-psychosocial and other factors may affect participation in HIV testing, particularly by Hispanic/Latino gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) in the U.S. South, a region hard-hit by HIV. We used univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses to examine the association between social support and other cognitive-psychosocial factors; sociodemographic characteristics; risk behaviors; and self-reported HIV testing in a sample of 304 Hispanic/Latino MSM in North Carolina. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, general and HIV-related social support and HIV-related knowledge were associated with greater odds of testing; speaking only Spanish was associated with reduced odds of testing. Social support and aspects of social connectedness may constitute community-based resources for use in HIV prevention efforts with Hispanic/Latino MSM. However, harnessing these resources for HIV prevention will require a better understanding of how social support relationships and processes shape HIV risks and protective actions by these vulnerable MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Painter
- Prevention Research Branch, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd. NE, MS E-37, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA.
| | - Eunyoung Y Song
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Mary M Mullins
- Prevention Research Branch, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd. NE, MS E-37, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Lilli Mann-Jackson
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Jorge Alonzo
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Beth A Reboussin
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Scott D Rhodes
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
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Fitriyani RA, Waluyo A. Family acceptance, peer support, and HIV serostatus disclosure of MSM-PLWHA in Medan, Indonesia. ENFERMERIA CLINICA 2019. [PMID: 31303520 DOI: 10.1016/j.enfcli.2019.04.099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to determine the correlation between family acceptance and HIV serostatus disclosure, and the correlation between peer support and HIV serostatus disclosure. METHODS This was a quantitative study with a cross-sectional design involving 176 MSM-PLWHA (Men who have sex with men-people living with HIV and AIDS). Instruments used in this study is Brief Scale of HIV disclosure, perceived acceptance scale, and peer group caring interaction scale. RESULTS The analysis showed a significant correlation between peer support and HIV serostatus disclosure (p-value 0.011), but there was no significant correlation between family acceptance and HIV serostatus disclosure (p-value 0.979). CONCLUSION Peer support affects HIV serostatus disclosure in MSM-PLWHA. Peer group interventions need to be improved. Providing systematic peer group support for MSM-PLWHA and integrating intervention with peer support might need to be done for the next care plan for MSM-PLWHA in Medan, Indonesia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Agung Waluyo
- Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, West Java, Indonesia.
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Hermanstyne KA, Green HD, Tieu HV, Hucks-Ortiz C, Wilton L, Shoptaw S. The Association Between Condomless Anal Sex and Social Support Among Black Men Who Have Sex With Men (MSM) in Six U.S. Cities: A Study Using Data from the HIV Prevention Trials Network BROTHERS Study (HPTN 061). AIDS Behav 2019; 23:1387-1395. [PMID: 30377980 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-2315-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
We assessed how egocentric (i.e., self-generated descriptions of a person's social contacts) network structure and composition corresponded with reported instances of condomless receptive and insertive anal intercourse with men who were reportedly HIV-infected or of unknown HIV serostatus in a sample of black men who have sex with men (MSM) in six U.S. cities. Ratings showing a higher percentage of network members who provided social participation and medical support were positively associated with reporting condomless sex. There were also significant positive associations between stimulant use and condomless insertive and receptive anal sex. Future research should examine the social processes that underlie these associations and explore ways that social support can affect HIV prevention efforts for black MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith A Hermanstyne
- Department of Psychiatry, UCSF Weil Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, 1930 Market Street, San Francisco, CA, 94102, USA.
| | - Harold D Green
- Indiana University Network Science Institute, Bloomington, IN, USA
- Center for Applied Network Analysis and Systems Science, RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, USA
| | - Hong-Van Tieu
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Leo Wilton
- Department of Human Development, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
- Faculty of Humanities, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Zarwell M, Robinson WT. Network Properties Among Gay, Bisexual and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men Vary by Race. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:1315-1325. [PMID: 30725398 DOI: 10.1007/s/10461-019-02416-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The HIV burden among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) may be related to variations in network characteristics of the individual's social and sexual network. This study investigates variations in network properties among 188 Black and 295 White GBM recruited in New Orleans during the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance in 2014. Participants described up to five people who provided social support and five sex partners in the past 3 months. Network properties and network dissimilarity indicators were aggregated to the participant level as means or proportions and examined using PROC GLM. White participants reported larger networks (p = 0.0027), had known network members longer (p = 0.0033), and reported more substance use (p < 0.0001) within networks. Black participants reported networks with fewer men (p = 0.0056) and younger members (p = 0.0110) than those of White GBM. Network properties among GBM differ by race in New Orleans which may inform prevention interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meagan Zarwell
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N Summit Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA.
- School of Public Health, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA.
| | - William T Robinson
- School of Public Health, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Louisiana Office of Public Health STD/HIV Program, New Orleans, LA, USA
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25
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Abstract
The HIV burden among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) may be related to variations in network characteristics of the individual's social and sexual network. This study investigates variations in network properties among 188 Black and 295 White GBM recruited in New Orleans during the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance in 2014. Participants described up to five people who provided social support and five sex partners in the past 3 months. Network properties and network dissimilarity indicators were aggregated to the participant level as means or proportions and examined using PROC GLM. White participants reported larger networks (p = 0.0027), had known network members longer (p = 0.0033), and reported more substance use (p < 0.0001) within networks. Black participants reported networks with fewer men (p = 0.0056) and younger members (p = 0.0110) than those of White GBM. Network properties among GBM differ by race in New Orleans which may inform prevention interventions.
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Social Network Support and Decreased Risk of Seroconversion in Black MSM: Results of the BROTHERS (HPTN 061) Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 78:163-168. [PMID: 29424789 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND SETTING Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) in the United States have disproportionately high HIV infection rates. Social networks have been shown to influence HIV risk behavior; however, little is known about whether they affect the risk of HIV seroconversion. This study uses data from the BROTHERS (HPTN 061) study to test whether contextual factors related to social networks are associated with HIV seroconversion among BMSM. METHODS We analyzed data from the BROTHERS study (2009-2011), which examined a multicomponent intervention for BMSM in 6 US cities. We ran a series of Cox regression analyses to examine associations between time-dependent measures of network support (personal/emotional, financial, medical, and social participation) and time to HIV seroconversion. We ran unadjusted models followed by models adjusted for participant age at enrollment and study location. RESULTS A total of 1000 BMSM tested HIV negative at baseline and were followed at 6- and 12-month study visits. Twenty-eight men tested HIV positive. In adjusted hazard ratio models, study participants who remained HIV negative had higher proportions of social network members who provided personal/emotional {0.92 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.85 to 0.99]}, medical [0.92 (95% CI: 0.85 to 0.99)], or social participation [0.91 (95% CI: 0.86 to 0.97)] support. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that the increased presence of social network support can be protective against HIV acquisition. Future research should explore the processes that link social network support with sexual and other transmission risk behaviors as a basis to inform HIV prevention efforts.
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Chittamuru D, Icard LD, Jemmott JB, O'Leary A. Prospective Predictors of Multiple Sexual Partners Among African American Men Who Have Sex with Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2018; 47:2081-2090. [PMID: 29926260 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1207-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Studies show that having sex with multiple partners increases the risk of acquiring and transmitting sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. The present article reports prospective predictors of having multiple sexual partners among 505 African American men in Philadelphia who have sex with men (MSM) who participated in an intervention trial and attended a 6-month follow-up. Participants completed audio computer-assisted surveys of demographics, sexual behavior, and Reasoned Action Approach and Social Cognitive Theory mediators concerning multiple partners. We analyzed the incidence of self-reported multiple partners at the 6-month follow-up, controlling for treatment condition and baseline levels of the theoretical variables. The odds of having multiple partners decreased with increasing age (p < .03). Participants who said they were HIV positive had lower odds of having multiple partners (p < .009). The more pride participants reported in their identities as black or African American men, the lower the odds that they reported having multiple partners (p < .02). Adverse outcome expectancies accruing to multiple partners fully mediated the effect of black pride and partially mediated the effects of age on the odds of having multiple partners. Modifiable factors such as perceived negative outcome expectancies regarding having multiple sex partners should be addressed in designing interventions and prevention programs with the goal of decreasing the number of sexual partners among African American MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepti Chittamuru
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Larry D Icard
- College of Public Health, School of Social Work, Temple University, 1301 Cecil B. Moore Ave., Suite 543, RA, Philadelphia, PA, 19121, USA.
| | - John B Jemmott
- Annenberg School of Communication, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ann O'Leary
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Lei Y, Zhang K, Xiao X, Tang C, Li X, Wang H. Sexual Roles, Risk Sexual Behaviours, and HIV Prevalence among Men who Have Sex with Men Seeking HIV Testing in Changsha, China. Curr HIV Res 2018; 16:174-181. [PMID: 29992887 PMCID: PMC6182933 DOI: 10.2174/1570162x16666180711101643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV infection is prevalent among men who have sex with men (MSM), and sexual roles may be important factors related to it. This study aims to describe the sexual roles, risky sexual behaviors and HIV prevalence among MSM, and to determine associated factors for HIV prevalence. METHODS A convenient sampling method was used to recruit participants in a non-government organization in Changsha, China. The participants were asked to complete a 38-item self-administered questionnaire regarding demographic characteristics and risky sexual behaviours before collecting blood samples for HIV testing. Chi-square tests and logistic regression analysis were conducted with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Version 18.0 and other indexes were statistically described. RESULTS A total of 601 MSMs who came to a local non-government organization for voluntary counseling and testing completed a pencil-and-paper survey and were tested for HIV. The overall HIV prevalence of this sample was 13.3%, and that of the bottoms (16.3%) was similar to the versatiles (15.9%) but higher than the tops (6.1%). Bivariate analyses showed that there were significant differences in age, marital status, monthly income, sexual orientation, age at first sex, sex of the first sex partner, sex with a woman in the last 6 months, oral sex with a man in the last 6 months and role of oral sex among 3 subgroups of MSM (p < 0.05). Multivariate analyses indicated that MSMs who played the role of either the bottoms or the versatiles were more likely to be HIV positive than the tops. While MSMs who used condoms in anal sex in the last 6 months, had sex with a woman in the last 6 months or had oral sex with a man in the last 6 months were less likely to be HIV positive. CONCLUSION Different sexual roles are associated with high-risk sexual behaviors among MSMs and their HIV infection status. Further research should target preventive interventions, and improve the effectiveness of the intervention according to the characteristics of the subgroups to reduce the HIV transmission among Chinese MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Honghong Wang
- Address correspondence to this author at Xiangya School of Nursing of Central South University, 172 Tong Zi Po Road, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China; Tel: 86-731-82650270; Fax: 86-731-82650266; E-mail:
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29
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Joseph HA, Pan Y, Mendoza M, Harawa NT, Lauby J, Hosek SG, Bluthenthal RN, Milnamow M, Fernandez MI, Jeffries WL, Belcher L, Millett GA. HIV Acquisition and Transmission Potential Among African American Men Who Have Sex with Men and Women in Three U.S. Cities. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2018; 47:183-194. [PMID: 29124541 PMCID: PMC8386249 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-017-1052-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Black men who have sex with men and women (BMSMW) are at increased HIV risk, but few efficacious interventions meet their unique needs. Three HIV prevention interventions were evaluated with a common protocol. Baseline data were pooled to describe sexual behavior involving transmission risk with male, female, and male-to-female transgender partners and identify factors associated with transmission risk. BMSMW from Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Chicago who reported sexual risk and bisexual behavior in the past year were recruited via modified chain referral sampling and community recruitment. Baseline assessments were conducted via audio computer-assisted interview and sexual behaviors assessed over the past 3 months. From December 2010 to November 2012, 584 BMSMW were enrolled across the three cities. More than half (55%) were recruited by other participants. Overall, the mean age was 43 years. Seventy-five percent reported an annual income <$10,000 and selling sex was prevalent (31%). Three-quarters identified as bisexual. Thirty-nine percent were HIV-positive. Among HIV-positive participants, 46% reported sex without condoms with HIV-negative or unknown male partners and 45% with HIV-negative or unknown female partners. Overall, factors associated with sex without condoms included network size, education, income, sexual orientation identification, HIV status, exchange sex, homonegativity, and social support. Findings support the need for enhanced HIV prevention efforts for this population. Future studies should examine contextual factors in addition to individual risk behaviors to inform the development and implementation of promising strategies to prevent HIV and promote the overall health and wellness of BMSMW and their sexual partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather A Joseph
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA.
| | - Yi Pan
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - Maria Mendoza
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - Nina T Harawa
- College of Medicine, Charles Drew University, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Lauby
- Public Health Management Corporation, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sybil G Hosek
- Research Department of Psychiatry, Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ricky N Bluthenthal
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California , Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mary Milnamow
- Public Health Management Corporation, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Lisa Belcher
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
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30
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Rutledge SE, Jemmott JB, O'Leary A, Icard LD. What's In an Identity Label? Correlates of Sociodemographics, Psychosocial Characteristics, and Sexual Behavior Among African American Men Who Have Sex With Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2018; 47:157-167. [PMID: 27448292 PMCID: PMC5253329 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-016-0776-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Revised: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
African American men who have sex with men (AAMSM) are vastly overrepresented among people with HIV/AIDS. Using data from 595 AAMSM in Philadelphia, we explored differences in sociodemographics, psychosocial characteristics related to beliefs about ethnicity, sexuality and masculinity, and sexual behavior with men and women by self-reported sexual identity (gay, bisexual, down low, straight). Roughly equivalent numbers identified as gay (40.6 %) and bisexual (41.3 %), while fewer identified as straight (7.6 %) or down low (10.5 %), with significant differences in age, income, history of incarceration, HIV status, alcohol and drug problems, childhood sexual abuse, and connection to the gay community evident among these groups. Analysis of psychosocial characteristics theorized to be related to identity and sexual behavior indicated significant differences in masculinity, homophobia, and outness as MSM. Gay and straight men appeared to be poles on a continuum of frequency of sexual behavior, with bisexual and down low men being sometimes more similar to gay men and sometimes more similar to straight men. The percentage of men having total intercourse of any kind was highest among down low and lowest among gay men. Gay men had less intercourse with women, but more receptive anal intercourse with men than the other identities. There were no significant differences by identity in frequency of condomless insertive anal intercourse with men, but gay men had significantly more condomless receptive anal intercourse. There were significant differences by identity for condomless vaginal and anal intercourse with women. This study demonstrates the importance of exploring differences in types of sex behavior for AAMSM by considering sexual identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Edward Rutledge
- School of Social Work, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA.
| | - John B Jemmott
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine and Annenberg School for Communication, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ann O'Leary
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Larry D Icard
- School of Social Work, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
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HIV-Related Sexual Risk among African American Men Preceding Incarceration: Associations with Support from Significant Others, Family, and Friends. J Urban Health 2017; 94:136-148. [PMID: 28116586 PMCID: PMC5359176 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-016-0120-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We evaluated the association between social support received from significant others, family, and friends and HIV-related sexual risk behaviors among African American men involved in the criminal justice system. Project DISRUPT is a cohort study among African American men released from prison in North Carolina (N = 189). During the baseline (in-prison) survey, we assessed the amount of support men perceived they had received from significant others, family, and friends. We measured associations between low support from each source (<median value) and participants' sex risk in the 6 months before incarceration. Low levels of social support from significant others, family, or friends were associated with poverty and homelessness, mental disorders, and substance use. Adjusting for age, poverty, and other sources of support, perceiving low support from significant others was strongly associated with multiple partnerships (fully adjusted odds ratio (OR) 2.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.29-5.42). Low significant other support also was strongly associated with sex trade involvement when adjusting for age and poverty status (adjusted OR 3.51, 95% CI 1.25-9.85) but further adjustment for low family and friend support weakened the association (fully adjusted OR 2.81, 95% CI 0.92-8.55). Significant other support was not associated with other sex risk outcomes including concurrent partnerships, anal sex, or sex with an STI/HIV-infected partner. Low family support was associated with multiple partnerships in analyses adjusting for age and poverty (adjusted OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.05-3.76) but the association weakened and was no longer significant after adjusting for other sources of support (fully adjusted OR 1.40, 95% CI 0.65-3.00); family support was not correlated with other risk behaviors. Friend support was not significantly associated with sex risk outcomes. Indicators of overall support from any source were not associated with sex risk outcomes. Helping inmates maintain ties may improve economic security and well-being during community re-entry, while supporting and strengthening relationships with a significant other in particular may help reduce sex risk. Studies should evaluate the protective effects of distinct support sources to avoid masking effects of support and to best understand the influence of social support on health.
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Tohme J, Egan JE, Friedman MR, Stall R. Psycho-social Correlates of Condom Use and HIV Testing among MSM Refugees in Beirut, Lebanon. AIDS Behav 2016; 20:417-425. [PMID: 27448215 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1498-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
MSM refugees have to deal with personal challenges and social/structural adversaries based on their refugee status on top of their sexual identity. To better customize interventions beside this population, we explored psycho-social and structural correlates of condom use and HIV testing in Lebanon by surveying and testing 150 participants. 67 % self-identified as gay. 84.6 % reported any unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) with men in the prior 3 months. Those who engaged in UAI, were lest comfortable with a doctor, didn't know where to get free HIV testing, experienced discrimination based on their refugee status and spent more time with their refugee peers, were less inclined to have seen a doctor in the past 12 month or knew where to get free HIV testing. Ever having been HIV tested was associated with being comfortable with medical doctors, knowing where to get HIV testing and spending time with other peer refugees. HIV prevention and testing promotion efforts targeting MSM refugees need to account for structural barriers, while fighting discrimination is crucial for a healthy sexual identity development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnny Tohme
- M-Coalition, Coalition of MSM and HIV activists in the MENA region, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - James E Egan
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Graduate School of Public Health, Center for LGBT Health Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mackey R Friedman
- Graduate School of Public Health, Center for LGBT Health Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ron Stall
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Graduate School of Public Health, Center for LGBT Health Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Qiu Y, Shen J, Lu H. The Development of Criteria for the Selection of Chinese Peer Educators in HIV Management: A Delphi Study. SCIENTIFICA 2016; 2016:9521313. [PMID: 28003930 PMCID: PMC5143706 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9521313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
To develop an expert consensus opinion of the criteria for selection of peer educator for HIV/AIDS care program, twenty experts were invited to complete a two-round Delphi consultation. Response rates of the panelists for the first and second rounds were both 100%, and the authority coefficient of the experts was 0.75. Experts achieved consensus on a total of nine items (75%) on completion of the study. The Precedence Chart Method was used to calculate the weight of each indicator, and then a priority list was generated accordingly. This study provides the initial selection criteria for HIV/AIDS peer educators in Shanghai as well as in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Qiu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
- School of Nursing, Fudan University, Shanghai 200000, China
| | - Jiayin Shen
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Hongzhou Lu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
- School of Nursing, Fudan University, Shanghai 200000, China
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Tucker C, Arandi CG, Bolaños JH, Paz-Bailey G, Barrington C. Understanding social and sexual networks of sexual minority men and transgender women in Guatemala city to improve HIV prevention efforts. J Health Care Poor Underserved 2016; 25:1698-717. [PMID: 25418236 DOI: 10.1353/hpu.2014.0163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Sexual minority men and transgender women are disproportionately affected by HIV in Guatemala. Innovative prevention strategies are urgently needed to address these disparities. While social network approaches are frequently used to reach sexual minorities, little is known about the unique network characteristics among sub-groups. We conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with 13 gay-identifying men, eight non-gay-identifying men who have sex with men (MSM) and eight transgender women in Guatemala City. Using narrative and thematic coding procedures, we identified distinct patterns in the size, composition, and overlap between social and sexual networks across groups. Gay-identifying men had the largest, most supportive social networks, predominantly comprising family. For both non-gay-identifying MSM and transgender women, friends and sex clients provided more support. Transgender women reported the smallest social networks, least social support, and the most discrimination. HIV prevention efforts should be tailored to the specific sexual minority population and engage with strong ties.
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35
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Tu Amigo Pepe: Evaluation of a Multi-media Marketing Campaign that Targets Young Latino Immigrant MSM with HIV Testing Messages. AIDS Behav 2016; 20:1973-88. [PMID: 26850101 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-015-1277-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Latino immigrant men who have sex with men (MSM) are at risk for HIV and delayed diagnosis in the United States. This paper describes the evaluation of a pilot of the Tu Amigo Pepe, a multimedia HIV testing campaign aimed at Latino MSM in Seattle, WA particularly targeting immigrants who may not identify as gay, ages 18-30 years old. The 16-week campaign included Spanish-language radio public service announcements (PSAs), a Web site, social media outreach, a reminder system using mobile technology, print materials and a toll-free hotline. In developing the PSAs, the Integrated Behavioral Model was used as a framework to reframe negative attitudes, beliefs and norms towards HIV testing with positive ones as well as to promote self-efficacy towards HIV testing. The campaign had a significant and immediate impact on attitudes, beliefs, norms and self-efficacy towards HIV testing as well as on actual behavior, with HIV testing rates increasing over time.
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36
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LaSala MC, Fedor JP, Revere EJ, Carney R. What Parents and Their Gay and Bisexual Sons Say About HIV Prevention. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2016; 26:1519-1530. [PMID: 26443796 DOI: 10.1177/1049732315604588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Despite ongoing prevention efforts, young gay and bisexual men (YGBM) accounted for more than three fourths of all recent HIV infections. Furthermore, they continue to engage in high-risk sexual behaviors at alarming rates. Nowadays, families are beginning to emerge as important resources for these youth. However, the viewpoints of YGBM and their families are largely missing from HIV prevention research and intervention development. To address this gap, we solicited the opinions of YGBM and their parents as to why YGBM engage in unsafe sex and what might be done to help them avoid HIV. Participants discussed youth's sense of invulnerability, sexual arousal, parental disapproval, and lack of societal acceptance as contributors to unsafe sex. Participants called for gay-sensitive sex education and community programming as well as increased societal acceptance. Overall, respondents recommended interpersonal and structural-level interventions that emphasized the importance of reducing stigma as a key component of HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael C LaSala
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - James P Fedor
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Elyse J Revere
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Robert Carney
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
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37
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Tieu HV, Nandi V, Hoover DR, Lucy D, Stewart K, Frye V, Cerda M, Ompad D, Latkin C, Koblin BA. Do Sexual Networks of Men Who Have Sex with Men in New York City Differ by Race/Ethnicity? AIDS Patient Care STDS 2016; 30:39-47. [PMID: 26745143 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2015.0237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The United States HIV epidemic disproportionately affects Black and Hispanic men who have sex with men (MSM). This disparity might be partially explained by differences in social and sexual network structure and composition. A total of 1267 MSM in New York City completed an ACASI survey and egocentric social and sexual network inventory about their sex partners in the past 3 months, and underwent HIV testing. Social and sexual network structure and composition were compared by race/ethnicity of the egos: black, non-Hispanic (N = 365 egos), white, non-Hispanic (N = 466), and Hispanic (N = 436). 21.1% were HIV-positive by HIV testing; 17.2% reported serodiscordant and serostatus unknown unprotected anal/vaginal intercourse (SDUI) in the last 3 months. Black MSM were more likely than white and Hispanic MSM to report exclusively having partners of same race/ethnicity. Black and Hispanic MSM had more HIV-positive and unknown status partners than white MSM. White men were more likely to report overlap of social and sex partners than black and Hispanic men. No significant differences by race/ethnicity were found for network size, density, having concurrent partners, or having partners with ≥10 years age difference. Specific network composition characteristics may explain racial/ethnic disparities in HIV infection rates among MSM, including HIV status of sex partners in networks and lack of social support within sexual networks. Network structural characteristics such as size and density do not appear to have such an impact. These data add to our understanding of the complexity of social factors affecting black MSM and Hispanic MSM in the U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Van Tieu
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York
| | - Vijay Nandi
- Laboratory of Analytical Sciences, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York
| | - Donald R. Hoover
- Department of Biostatistics, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Debbie Lucy
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York
| | - Kiwan Stewart
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York
| | - Victoria Frye
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Social Sciences, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York
| | - Magdalena Cerda
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Danielle Ompad
- New York University Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York City, New York
| | - Carl Latkin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Beryl A. Koblin
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York
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Frye V, Wilton L, Hirshfield S, Chiasson MA, Usher D, Lucy D, McCrossin J, Greene E, Koblin B. "Just Because It's Out There, People Aren't Going to Use It." HIV Self-Testing Among Young, Black MSM, and Transgender Women. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2015; 29:617-24. [PMID: 26376029 PMCID: PMC4808283 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2015.0100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV disproportionately affects young black MSM and transgender women in the US. Increasing HIV testing rates among these populations is a critical public health goal. Although HIV self-tests are commercially available, there is a need to better understand access to and uptake of HIV self-testing among this population. Here, we report results of a qualitative study of 30 young black MSM and transgender women residing in the New York City area to understand facilitators of and barriers to a range of HIV testing approaches, including self-testing. Mean age was 23.7 years (SD = 3.4). Over half (54%) had some college or an associate's degree, yet 37% had an annual personal income of less than $10,000 per year. Most (64%) participants had tested in the past 6 months; venues included community health/free clinics, medical offices, mobile testing units, hospitals, emergency departments, and research sites. Just one participant reported ever using a commercially available HIV self-test. Facilitators of self-testing included convenience, control, and privacy, particularly as compared to venue-based testing. Barriers to self-testing included the cost of the test, anxiety regarding accessing the test, concerns around correct test operation, and lack of support if a test result is positive. Participants indicated that instruction in correct test operation and social support in the event of a positive test result may increase the likelihood that they would use the self-test. Alongside developing new approaches to HIV prevention, developing ways to increase HIV self-testing is a public health priority for young, black MSM, and transgender women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Frye
- Laboratories of Social and Behavioral Sciences, New York Blood Center, New York, New York
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Leo Wilton
- Department of Human Development, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, New York
- Faculty of Humanities, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | - DaShawn Usher
- Project ACHIEVE, Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York, New York
| | - Debbie Lucy
- Project ACHIEVE, Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York, New York
| | - Jermaine McCrossin
- Project ACHIEVE, Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York, New York
| | - Emily Greene
- Laboratories of Social and Behavioral Sciences, New York Blood Center, New York, New York
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Beryl Koblin
- Laboratories of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York, New York
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LaSala MC. Condoms and Connection: Parents, Gay and Bisexual Youth, and HIV Risk. JOURNAL OF MARITAL AND FAMILY THERAPY 2015; 41:451-64. [PMID: 25099281 DOI: 10.1111/jmft.12088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The family has long been considered a powerful influence on youth's high-risk behaviors. However, little is known about preventive family influences for gay and bisexual youth, a group at high risk for HIV infection. For this study, qualitative interviews from a sample of 38 gay and bisexual youth and their parents/guardians underwent a thematic analysis. Youth described parent-child closeness, parental warnings, and urgings to use condoms as influences. Youth denying family influence came from families in which parent-child relationships were disrupted or HIV-related discussion was lacking. Most families reported discomfort discussing HIV risk. These findings, along with a case example, suggest how family therapists can enhance parental influence by helping these families strengthen their relationships and discuss this important topic. Video Abstract.
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White JM, Dunham E, Rowley B, Reisner SL, Mimiaga MJ. Sexually explicit racialised media targeting men who have sex with men online: a content analysis of high-risk behaviour depicted in online advertisements. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2015; 17:1021-34. [PMID: 25891135 PMCID: PMC4565153 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2015.1027738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Sexually explicit media may perpetuate racial and sexual norms among men who have sex with men. While men may be exposed to sexually explicit media in the online settings where they seek sex with other men, no studies to our knowledge have explored the relationship between the racial and sexual content of advertisements appearing in these spaces. In 2011, using a detailed codebook, 217 sexually explicit advertisements on a male sex-seeking website were coded for themes, actor characteristics and sexual acts depicted. Multivariable logistic regression models examined the association between skin colour, theme, sexual acts and condomless sex acts. Nearly half (45%) featured a 'thug' theme (a style emphasising Black masculinity/hip-hop culture), 21% featured a college theme and 44% featured condomless sex. Advertisements featuring only Black men, advertisements featuring Black men with men of other skin tones and advertisements depicting a thug theme were positively associated with depictions of condomless sex. Online sexually explicit advertisements featuring Black themes and actors more frequently depicted condomless sex than advertisements with White men alone. Future research should examine whether depictions of Black men engaging in condomless sex in online advertisements influence the sexual norms and cognitions of Black men who have sex with men and their partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaclyn M. White
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, USA
- Yale School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Blake Rowley
- National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sari L. Reisner
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, USA
- Harvard School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, USA
| | - Matthew J. Mimiaga
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, USA
- Harvard School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, USA
- Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, USA
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Shi Shiu C, Voisin DR, Chen WT, Lo YA, Hardestry M, Nguyen H. A Synthesis of 20 Years of Research on Sexual Risk Taking Among Asian/Pacific Islander Men Who Have Sex With Men in Western Countries. Am J Mens Health 2015; 10:170-80. [PMID: 25563383 DOI: 10.1177/1557988314561489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, there has emerged a body of literature documenting a number of risk factors associated with Asian/Pacific Islander men who have sex with men's unsafe sexual behaviors. This study aims to systematically review existing empirical studies and synthesize research results into a social-ecological framework using a mixed research synthesis. Empirical research articles published in peer-reviewed journals between January 1990 and June 2013 were identified in six databases, including PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Social Work Abstract, CINAL, and Web of Knowledge. Both quantitative and qualitative studies were included. Two analysts independently reviewed the articles, and findings were organized on a social-ecological framework. Twenty-two articles were included in the analysis; among these 13 were quantitative, 8 were qualitative, and 1 was mixed-methods research. Results indicated that demographic characteristics, psychological resources, behavioral patterns, relationships with family and friends, dynamics with romantic or sexual partners, community involvement, culture, discrimination, and institutional factors were related to unprotected anal intercourse. This article presents a critique of this literature and discusses implications for future research with this population. It concludes with prevention/intervention initiatives based on review findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Shi Shiu
- School of Social Work, University of Washington, USA
| | - Dexter R Voisin
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, USA
| | | | - Yi-An Lo
- Counseling Center, University of Washington, USA
| | | | - Huong Nguyen
- College of Social Work, University of South Carolina, USA
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Abstract
Worldwide, men who have sex with men (MSM) remain one of the most HIV-vulnerable community populations. A global public health priority is developing new methods of reaching MSM, understanding HIV transmission patterns, and intervening to reduce their risk. Increased attention is being given to the role that MSM networks play in HIV epidemiology. This review of MSM network research studies demonstrates that: (1) Members of the same social network often share similar norms, attitudes, and HIV risk behavior levels; (2) Network interventions are feasible and powerful for reducing unprotected sex and potentially for increasing HIV testing uptake; (3) HIV vulnerability among African American MSM increases when an individual enters a high-risk sexual network characterized by high density and racial homogeneity; and (4) Networks are primary sources of social support for MSM, particularly for those living with HIV, with greater support predicting higher care uptake and adherence.
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Gilbert PA, Perreira K, Eng E, Rhodes SD. Social stressors and alcohol use among immigrant sexual and gender minority Latinos in a nontraditional settlement state. Subst Use Misuse 2014; 49:1365-75. [PMID: 24708429 PMCID: PMC4167708 DOI: 10.3109/10826084.2014.901389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
We sought to quantify the association of social stressors with alcohol use among immigrant sexual and gender minority Latinos in North Carolina (n = 190). We modeled any drinking in past year using logistic regression and heavy episodic drinking in past 30 days using Poisson regression. Despite a large proportion of abstainers, there were indications of hazardous drinking. Among current drinkers, 63% reported at least one heavy drinking episode in past 30 days. Ethnic discrimination increased, and social support decreased, odds of any drinking in past year. Social support moderated the associations of English use and ethnic discrimination with heavy episodic drinking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Gilbert
- 1Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute , Emeryville, Callifornia , USA
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44
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Qiao S, Li X, Stanton B. Social support and HIV-related risk behaviors: a systematic review of the global literature. AIDS Behav 2014; 18:419-41. [PMID: 23921582 PMCID: PMC3946791 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-013-0561-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Existing empirical evidence has well documented the role of social support in both physical and psychological well-being among various populations. In the context of HIV prevention, the rapid increase of studies on social support merits a systematic review to synthesize the current global literature on association between social support and HIV-related risk behaviors. The current review reveals a complex picture of this relationship across diverse populations. Existing studies indicate that higher levels of social support are related to fewer HIV-related risk behaviors among female sex workers and people living with HIV/AIDS and heterosexual adults in general. However, influences of social support on HIV-related risk behaviors are inconsistent within drug users, men who have sex with men and adolescents. These variations in findings may be attributed to different measurement of social support in different studies, specific context of social support for diverse population, or various characteristics of the social networks the study population obtained support from. Future studies are needed to explore the mechanism of how social support affects HIV-related risk behaviors. HIV prevention intervention efforts need to focus on the positive effect of social support for various vulnerable and at-risk populations. Future efforts also need to incorporate necessary structure change and utilize technical innovation in order to maximize the protective role of social support in HIV risk prevention or reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Qiao
- Carman and Ann Adams Department of Pediatrics, Prevention Research Center, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Hutzel Building, Suite W534, 4707 St. Antoine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA,
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Social network characteristics and HIV risk among African American, Asian/Pacific Islander, and Latino men who have sex with men. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2014; 64:496-501. [PMID: 23933767 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0b013e3182a7ee52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine how social networks influence HIV risk among US racial/ethnic minority men who have sex with men (MSM) and whether the associations of social network characteristics with risk vary by race/ethnicity. METHODS A chain-referral sample of 403 African American, 393 Asian/Pacific Islander, and 400 Latino MSM recruited in Los Angeles County, California, completed a questionnaire, which asked about their egocentric social networks, safer sex peer norms, and male anal intercourse partners. HIV-nonconcordant partnerships were those reported by respondents as serodisconcordant or where self and/or partner serostatus was unknown. RESULTS Overall, 26% of the sample reported HIV-nonconcordant unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) with a nonprimary male partner in the previous 6 months. In a generalized estimating equation (GEE) logistic model that controlled for race/ethnicity, age, nativity, incarceration history, and HIV status, being in a more dense network was associated with less HIV-nonconcordant UAI [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.92, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.86 to 0.99, P = 0.0467]. In addition, the effect of safer sex peer norms on HIV-nonconcordant UAI was moderated by ego-alter closeness (P = 0.0021). Safer sex peer norms were protective among those reporting "medium" or "high" ego-alter closeness (AOR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.52 to 0.95, P = 0.0213 and AOR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.35 to 0.66, P < 0.0001, respectively), but not among those reporting "low" ego-alter closeness (AOR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.63 to 1.46, P = 0.8333). The effects of density, closeness, and norms on HIV-nonconcordant UAI did not differ by race/ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS The significant association of social network characteristics with UAI point to network-level factors as important loci for both ongoing research and HIV prevention interventions among US MSM of color.
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Maulsby C, Millett G, Lindsey K, Kelley R, Johnson K, Montoya D, Holtgrave D. HIV among Black men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States: a review of the literature. AIDS Behav 2014; 18:10-25. [PMID: 23620241 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-013-0476-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 255] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
In 2006, Millett published a seminal literature review that examined 12 hypotheses to explain the high rates of HIV among black MSM. This paper augments Millett's article by reviewing the recent literature on behavioral, biomedical, structural, social contextual, psychosocial, and social network factors that affect HIV rates among black MSM. We searched three databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. First we searched all articles that included black or African American and MSM and HIV. We then searched the following terms for each area: behavioral (drug use during sex, crack cocaine use, and serosorting); biomedical (circumcision, STDs, and STIs); structural (access to care, HIV care, ART, HAART, patient-provider communication, HIV quality of care); social contextual (stigma, discrimination, internalized homophobia, internalized heterosexism, medical mistrust, social isolation, and incarceration); psychosocial (peer support and mental health); and social network (sexual mixing, partner characteristics, and social networks) factors. We identified 39 articles to include in this review. We found inconclusive evidence that incarceration, stigma, discrimination, social isolation, mental health disparities, or social networks explain the elevated rates of HIV among black MSM. We found evidence that the differences in rates of HIV between black and white MSM may be explained by differences in STIs, undiagnosed seropositivity, access to care and treatment services, and use of HAART. There is an overwhelming need for HIV testing, linkage to care, retention in care, and adherence programs for black MSM.
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Associations between perceived characteristics of the peer social network involving significant others and risk of HIV transmission among men who have sex with men in China. AIDS Behav 2014; 18:99-110. [PMID: 23644817 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-013-0492-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The HIV epidemic among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China is severe. Peer can induce risky and preventive behaviors among MSM. We interviewed 220 MSM who had at least one significant other who was a peer MSM (SOPM). Interviews were conducted at two gay venues in Suzhou, China, which reported five HIV-related outcomes: HIV (8.2 %), syphilis (16.4 %), self-reported sexually transmitted infection symptoms (14.6 %), unprotected anal intercourse (UAI; 58.6 %) and having had taken up HIV testing (40.4 %). Adjusting for significant background variables, participants' perceived characteristics of the social network of SOPM, such as practicing risk behavior (e.g. UAI) or preventive behaviors (e.g. HIV antibody testing), or possessing HIV-related perceptions (e.g. dislike in condom use), were significantly associated with some of the five aforementioned outcomes (p < 0.05). Peer education and peer-based interventions involving significant others are hence potentially important in HIV prevention targeting MSM. Future pilot intervention studies are warranted.
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Gilbert PA, Rhodes SD. Immigrant sexual minority Latino men in rural North Carolina: an exploration of social context, social behaviors, and sexual outcomes. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2014; 61:1131-51. [PMID: 24344629 PMCID: PMC4043853 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2014.872507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Immigrant sexual minority Latino men-who may or may not self-identify as gay-constitute a minority within a minority. Often labeled "hidden" and "hard-to-reach," and marginalized along multiple dimensions, it is a subgroup about whom little is known. Informed by a social ecological framework, we sought to describe key social variables for 190 such men in rural North Carolina and to test associations with three sexual outcomes: consistent condom use, number of sex partners, and sexual compulsivity. Participants reported limited English-language use, predominantly Latino close friends, middle levels of social support despite numerous social ties, and frequent experiences of discrimination. There were unique sets of correlates for each sexual outcome. Findings may inform health promotion interventions and guide future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A. Gilbert
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Scott D. Rhodes
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
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Buttram ME, Kurtz SP, Surratt HL. Substance use and sexual risk mediated by social support among Black men. J Community Health 2013; 38:62-9. [PMID: 22752575 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-012-9582-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Health and social disparities are widespread among men who have sex with men (MSM). Although literature indicates that Black MSM (BMSM) are no more likely than other MSM to report sexual risk behaviors, such as unprotected anal intercourse, studies have reported that buying and trading sex appear to be important risk factors for BMSM. Substance use generally is not significantly greater among BMSM than other MSM, studies have found that BMSM report more powder and crack cocaine use than other MSM. The lack of adequate coping skills and social support for BMSM has also been documented. This paper examines differences in substance use, sexual risk behaviors and social support among Black and non-black MSM, in a sample of 515 men participating in a randomized intervention trial. BMSM reported higher rates of substance dependence (72.2 vs. 59.5%, P = .015) and buying sex (49.1 vs. 17.4%, P < .000) than non-Black MSM. BMSM also reported lower levels of social support than other MSM on all measures included in the study; e.g., getting help and emotional support from others (38.0 vs. 52.8%, P < .006). Mediation analyses showed that BMSM's higher rates of substance dependence and buying sex are partially mediated by lower levels of social support. Our data appear to show that lack of social support is an important influence on risk behaviors among BMSM. Qualitative data also supported these findings. Sexual risk and substance use prevention interventions should address BMSM's capacity to build adequate and supportive relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mance E Buttram
- Center for Applied Research on Substance Use and Health Disparities, Nova Southeastern University, Coral Gables, FL 33134, USA.
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Millett GA, Peterson JL, Flores SA, Hart TA, Jeffries WL, Wilson PA, Rourke SB, Heilig CM, Elford J, Fenton KA, Remis RS. Comparisons of disparities and risks of HIV infection in black and other men who have sex with men in Canada, UK, and USA: a meta-analysis. Lancet 2012; 380:341-8. [PMID: 22819656 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(12)60899-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 546] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We did a meta-analysis to assess factors associated with disparities in HIV infection in black men who have sex with men (MSM) in Canada, the UK, and the USA. METHODS We searched Embase, Medline, Google Scholar, and online conference proceedings from Jan 1, 1981, to Dec 31, 2011, for racial comparative studies with quantitative outcomes associated with HIV risk or HIV infection. Key words and Medical Subject Headings (US National Library of Medicine) relevant to race were cross-referenced with citations pertinent to homosexuality in Canada, the UK, and the USA. Data were aggregated across studies for every outcome of interest to estimate overall effect sizes, which were converted into summary ORs for 106,148 black MSM relative to 581,577 other MSM. FINDINGS We analysed seven studies from Canada, 13 from the UK, and 174 from the USA. In every country, black MSM were as likely to engage similarly in serodiscordant unprotected sex as other MSM. Black MSM in Canada and the USA were less likely than other MSM to have a history of substance use (odds ratio, OR, 0·53, 95% CI 0·38-0·75, for Canada and 0·67, 0·50-0·92, for the USA). Black MSM in the UK (1·86, 1·58-2·18) and the USA (3·00, 2·06-4·40) were more likely to be HIV positive than were other MSM, but HIV-positive black MSM in each country were less likely (22% in the UK and 60% in the USA) to initiate combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) than other HIV-positive MSM. US HIV-positive black MSM were also less likely to have health insurance, have a high CD4 count, adhere to cART, or be virally suppressed than were other US HIV-positive MSM. Notably, despite a two-fold greater odds of having any structural barrier that increases HIV risk (eg, unemployment, low income, previous incarceration, or less education) compared with other US MSM, US black MSM were more likely to report any preventive behaviour against HIV infection (1·39, 1·23-1·57). For outcomes associated with HIV infection, disparities were greatest for US black MSM versus other MSM for structural barriers, sex partner demographics (eg, age, race), and HIV care outcomes, whereas disparities were least for sexual risk outcomes. INTERPRETATION Similar racial disparities in HIV and sexually transmitted infections and cART initiation are seen in MSM in the UK and the USA. Elimination of disparities in HIV infection in black MSM cannot be accomplished without addressing structural barriers or differences in HIV clinical care access and outcomes. FUNDING None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregorio A Millett
- National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral, Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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