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Braddock WRT, Ocasio MA, Comulada WS, Mandani J, Fernandez MI. Increasing Participation in a TelePrEP Program for Sexual and Gender Minority Adolescents and Young Adults in Louisiana: Protocol for an SMS Text Messaging-Based Chatbot. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e42983. [PMID: 37256669 PMCID: PMC10267782 DOI: 10.2196/42983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual and gender minority (SGM) adolescents and young adults (AYAs) are at increased risk of HIV infection, particularly in the Southern United States. Despite the availability of effective biomedical prevention strategies, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), access and uptake remain low among SGM AYAs. In response, the Louisiana Department of Health initiated the LA TelePrEP Program, which leverages the power of telemedicine to connect Louisiana residents to PrEP. A virtual TelePrEP Navigator guides users through the enrollment process, answers questions, schedules appointments, and facilitates lab testing and medication delivery. To increase the participation of SGM AYAs in the program, the TelePrEP program partnered with researchers to develop a chatbot that would facilitate access to the program and support navigator functions. Chatbots are capable of carrying out many functions that reduce employee workload, and despite their successful use in health care and public health, they are relatively new to HIV prevention. OBJECTIVE In this paper, we describe the iterative and community-engaged process that we used to develop an SMS text messaging-based chatbot tailored to SGM AYAs that would support navigator functions and disseminate PrEP-related information. METHODS Our process was comprised of 2 phases: conceptualization and development. In the conceptualization phase, aspects of navigator responsibilities, program logistics, and user interactions to prioritize in chatbot programming (eg, scheduling appointments and answering questions) were identified. We also selected a commercially available chatbot platform that could execute these functions and could be programmed with minimal coding experience. In the development phase, we engaged Department of Health staff and SGM AYAs within our professional and personal networks. Five different rounds of testing were conducted with various groups to evaluate each iteration of the chatbot. After each iteration of the testing process, the research team met to discuss feedback, guide the programmer on incorporating modifications, and re-evaluate the chatbot's functionality. RESULTS Through our highly collaborative and community-engaged process, a rule-based chatbot with artificial intelligence components was successfully created. We gained important knowledge that could advance future chatbot development efforts for HIV prevention. Key to the PrEPBot's success was resolving issues that hampered the user experience, like asking unnecessary questions, responding too quickly, and misunderstanding user input. CONCLUSIONS HIV prevention researchers can feasibly and efficiently program a rule-based chatbot with the assistance of commercially available tools. Our iterative process of engaging researchers, program personnel, and different subgroups of SGM AYAs to obtain input was key to successful chatbot development. If the results of this pilot trial show that the chatbot is feasible and acceptable to SGM AYAs, future HIV researchers and practitioners could consider incorporating chatbots as part of their programs. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/42983.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manuel A Ocasio
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - W Scott Comulada
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jan Mandani
- Office of Public Health, Louisiana Department of Health, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - M Isabel Fernandez
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, United States
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Exten C, Vasilenko SA, Rosenberger JG. How Old Is He Really? The Association Between "Gay Age" and Sexual Behaviors Among Men Who Have Sex With Men. Sex Transm Dis 2023; 50:107-111. [PMID: 36630417 PMCID: PMC10494284 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001728] [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: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately impacted by HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with sexual behaviors acting as a primary predictor of disease acquisition. Predictors of engagement in specific sexual behaviors may act as key targets for preventive strategies. We hypothesized that time since first engaging in oral or anal sex with another man, or one’s “gay age”, is associated with sexual behavior among MSM. Methods: We examined 5,280 MSM, aged 18–40, who were recruited from social and sexual connection websites. We used modified Poisson regression to examine associations between gay age and four sexual behaviors (enema use, group sex, receptive anal intercourse, insertive anal intercourse). We used time-varying effect models (TVEM) to examine how the prevalence of these behaviors varies across gay age. Results: In total, 76% of participants reported receptive anal intercourse in the past year and 76% reported insertive anal intercourse. Group sex and enema use in the past year were reported by 39% and 36%, respectively. Modified Poisson and TVEM analyses indicated that prevalence of enema use, group sex, and insertive anal intercourse significantly increased with increasing gay age. Conclusions: Gay age may serve as an important marker of engagement in sexual behaviors associated with STI/HIV acquisition among MSM. Time since first engaging in oral or anal sex with another man may act as a marker of engagement in sexual behaviors associated with STI/HIV transmission among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara Exten
- From the Ross & Carol Nese College of Nursing, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Sara A Vasilenko
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY
| | - Joshua G Rosenberger
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
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Mwaniki SW, Mugo PM, Palanee-Phillips T. Project BESPOKE (Integrated Bio-Behavioral Assessment of HIV and STI Among Young Tertiary Student Men Who Have Sex With Men in Nairobi, Kenya): A Respondent-Driven Sampling Survey Protocol. Front Public Health 2021; 9:619694. [PMID: 34708012 PMCID: PMC8542710 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.619694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Globally, men who have sex with men (MSM) are a key population for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic. Among MSM, young men who have sex with men (YMSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STI). However, there is a dearth of research and interventions targeting HIV/STI prevention among YMSM. In Kenya, there is paucity of knowledge on the burden of HIV/STI and related factors among YMSM, including tertiary student men who have sex with men (TSMSM). The barriers TSMSM experience in accessing and utilizing health services in their learning institutions have seldom been explored. In the context of healthcare providers (HCP) working in tertiary institutions, little is known about their knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward providing services to TSMSM. Methods: The aims of the study are to: estimate prevalence and correlates of HIV/STI among TSMSM; estimate population size of TSMSM; explore experiences of TSMSM with access and utilization of health services; and assess HCP knowledge of, attitudes toward, and practices in provision of services to TSMSM. A mixed-methods approach will be used in three phases: Phase I-formative qualitative research will be conducted to understand TSMSM social networks, select "seeds", and explore strategies for implementing a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) survey. Interviews will be conducted with at least three staff who work in community based/non-governmental organizations (CBO/NGO) that serve MSM and at least 10 TSMSM. Phase II-an integrated bio-behavioral assessment (IBBA) will be conducted, where 200 TSMSM recruited by RDS will be offered HIV/STI testing, complete a behavioral survey, and provide information for population size estimation (PSE). Phase III-in-depth interviews will be held with 20 TSMSM selected from 200 TSMSM in phase II, to explore their experiences with access and utilization of healthcare services. Focus group discussions (FGD) will be conducted with HCP working in tertiary institutions to assess their knowledge of, attitudes toward, and practices in providing services to TSMSM. Data collection started in September 2020 and is expected to end by September 2021. Discussion: Findings from this study will be useful in informing HIV/STI prevention programming for TSMSM, by policy makers such the Kenyan ministries of health and education, tertiary education institutions, service providers, advocacy groups, and other interested stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Waweru Mwaniki
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- University Health Services, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Peter Mwangi Mugo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Ossa-Giraldo AC, Correa JS, Moreno CL, Blanquiceth Y, Flórez-Álvarez L, Contreras-Ramírez K, Higuita-Gutérrez LF, Hernández JC, Zapata W. Sexual Behaviors and Factors Associated with Condomless Sexual Practice in Colombian Men Who Have Sex with Men at High Risk of HIV Transmission. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:3175-3190. [PMID: 33829332 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01856-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) have a disproportionate burden of HIV infection worldwide. In Colombia, the prevalence of HIV in MSM is ~ 43 times higher than in the general population (17% vs. 0.4%). This study determined the sexual behaviors, HIV serostatus, and associated factors with condomless sexual practice with both regular and casual partners in 92 MSM from Medellín, Colombia. The subjects were recruited through a community-based approach, and the data were collected by a structured survey and in-depth interviews. Participants were classified into three groups according to the number of sexual partners in the last three months, to compare the sociodemographic conditions and sexual behaviors. Univariate analysis was described by absolute and relative frequencies; bivariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were used to compare the groups and to explore the associated factors with condomless sexual practice. The overall HIV estimated prevalence was 4.3%, while the estimated prevalence for MSM with > 10 sexual partners in the last three months was 14.8%. This last group showed higher average age, higher percentage of subjects who have had sex with people living with HIV, and increased frequency of previous sexually transmitted infections. Having condomless sex with casual partners was associated with the number of sexual partners in the last three months. This study demonstrates that Colombian MSM continue to have a high risk of HIV infection/transmission and reinforce the need to implement adequate prevention programs, PrEP and guarantee access to treatment for people living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Claudia Ossa-Giraldo
- Grupo Infettare, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Calle 50 No. 40-74, 050012, Medellín, Colombia.
| | - John Sebastián Correa
- Grupo Infettare, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Calle 50 No. 40-74, 050012, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Cristhian Leonardo Moreno
- Grupo Infettare, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Calle 50 No. 40-74, 050012, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Yurany Blanquiceth
- Grupo Infettare, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Calle 50 No. 40-74, 050012, Medellín, Colombia
- Grupo Inmunovirología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, UdeA, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Lizdany Flórez-Álvarez
- Grupo Infettare, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Calle 50 No. 40-74, 050012, Medellín, Colombia
- Grupo Inmunovirología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, UdeA, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Katherin Contreras-Ramírez
- Grupo Infettare, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Calle 50 No. 40-74, 050012, Medellín, Colombia
- Grupo Inmunovirología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, UdeA, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Luis Felipe Higuita-Gutérrez
- Grupo Infettare, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Calle 50 No. 40-74, 050012, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Juan Carlos Hernández
- Grupo Infettare, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Calle 50 No. 40-74, 050012, Medellín, Colombia
- Grupo Inmunovirología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, UdeA, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Wildeman Zapata
- Grupo Infettare, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Calle 50 No. 40-74, 050012, Medellín, Colombia
- Grupo Inmunovirología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, UdeA, Medellín, Colombia
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Hubach RD, O'Neil A, Stowe M, Giano Z, Curtis B, Fisher CB. Perceived Confidentiality Risks of Mobile Technology-Based Ecologic Momentary Assessment to Assess High-Risk Behaviors Among Rural Men Who Have Sex with Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:1641-1650. [PMID: 32078710 PMCID: PMC7438245 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01612-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/14/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Although men who have sex with men (MSM) within rural communities are disproportionately impacted by HIV, limited HIV research and programmatic resources are directed to these communities within the U.S. There is a need for improved behavioral data collection methods to obtain more detailed information on the relationship between rural environments, sexual behavior, and substance use. Utilization of mobile health (mHealth) technologies, such as ecologic momentary assessment (EMA), has been advocated for; however, limited research has evaluated its utility among rural MSM. Forty MSM residing in rural Oklahoma were recruited to complete in-depth interviews related to participating online/mobile-based HIV prevention research. Men described a willingness to participate in HIV and substance use studies that use EMA methodologies for data collection; however, they raised various research-related concerns. In particular, participants indicated potential privacy and confidentiality concerns related to the use of the mobile technology-based EMA in public and the storage of data by researchers. Given the varying degree of sexual orientation and substance use disclosure by participants, rural MSM were largely concerned with being inadvertently "outed" within their communities. Men described the various strategies they could employ to protect private information and methods to minimize research risk. Study findings suggest that EMA is an acceptable research methodology for use among rural MSM in the context of HIV and sexual health information, when privacy and confidentiality concerns are adequately addressed. Input from community members and stakeholders is necessary to identify potential areas of concerns for participants prior to data collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randolph D Hubach
- Sexual Health Research Lab, Center for Rural Health, Oklahoma State University-Center for Health Sciences, 1111 W 17th Street, Tulsa, OK, 74107, USA.
| | - Andrew O'Neil
- Sexual Health Research Lab, Center for Rural Health, Oklahoma State University-Center for Health Sciences, 1111 W 17th Street, Tulsa, OK, 74107, USA
| | - Mollie Stowe
- Sexual Health Research Lab, Center for Rural Health, Oklahoma State University-Center for Health Sciences, 1111 W 17th Street, Tulsa, OK, 74107, USA
| | - Zachary Giano
- Sexual Health Research Lab, Center for Rural Health, Oklahoma State University-Center for Health Sciences, 1111 W 17th Street, Tulsa, OK, 74107, USA
| | - Brenda Curtis
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Celia B Fisher
- Center for Ethics Education and Department of Psychology, Fordham University, Bronx, NY, USA
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Djiadeu P, Nur J, Mbuagbaw L, Giwa S, Whitfield D, Nelson LE. HIV prevention and treatment interventions for black men who have sex with men in Canada: a protocol for a scoping systematic review. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e043055. [PMID: 33766840 PMCID: PMC7996663 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-043055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Globally, rates of HIV are disproportionately high among black men who have sex with men (MSM). In Canada, race, gender and sexuality have been investigated as separate factors that influence quality of care within and progression along the HIV care continuum. Traditional compartmental approaches to synthesising the HIV care continuum literature do not sufficiently account for intersectional experiences and marginalisation of Black MSM (BMSM). Moreover, there is limited research outlining access to and quality of care as specific barriers to progression along the care continuum among BMSM in Canada. OBJECTIVES The primary objective of this scoping review is to assess the state of the science regarding the influence of access to and quality of HIV care continuum outcomes for BMSM in Canada. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will conduct a systematic search of published literature of quantitative and qualitative studies published on Canadian BMSM's healthcare and HIV status. The searches will be conducted through MEDLINE, Excerpta Medica Database, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, the Cochrane Library, the NHUS Economic Development Database, Global Health, APA PsychInfo, PubMed and Web of Science. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Eligible studies will include data on black MSM living with or without HIV in Canada and must be published after 1983 in either English or French. Screening and data extraction will be conducted in duplicate. Any discrepancies that arise will be resolved by consulting a third author. The findings will subsequently be reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval is not required as secondary published data will be used. Our findings will be disseminated as peer-reviewed manuscripts, at conferences, student rounds and could be of interest to government health agencies and HIV/AIDS service organisations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Djiadeu
- Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jemal Nur
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lawrence Mbuagbaw
- Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sulaimon Giwa
- School of Social Work, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Darren Whitfield
- School of Social Work, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Laron E Nelson
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Yale School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Fields EL, Hussen SA, Malebranche DJ. Mind the Gap: HIV Prevention Among Young Black Men Who Have Sex with Men. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2021; 17:632-642. [PMID: 32914329 PMCID: PMC7483045 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-020-00532-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) suffer profound health inequities in new HIV diagnoses and clinical outcomes. While the evolution of HIV prevention options has become increasingly biomedical, inequities in access and uptake of these modalities persist. RECENT FINDINGS Studies suggest that while YBMSM display interest and acceptability of varied HIV prevention options, uptake lags due to the lingering effects of intersectional oppression from racism and sexual prejudice, HIV stigma, institutional and provider bias, and unresolved health policy barriers. Promising avenues to address these barriers have yet to be fully explored. We have the tools to effectively prevent HIV transmission and acquisition among YBMSM, but we have not yet effectively implemented these tools for this priority population. To end the epidemic, we must tailor and adapt HIV prevention strategies to meet the unique intersecting needs, identities, and social contexts of YBMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Errol L Fields
- Division of Adolescent/Young Adult Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 200 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Sophia A Hussen
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - David J Malebranche
- Department of General Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA.
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Matsuno E, Goodman JA, Israel T, Choi AY, Lin YJ, Kary KG. L or G or B or T: Matching Sexual and Gender Minorities with Subpopulation-Specific Interventions. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2020:1-23. [PMID: 33017274 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2020.1819714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Sexual and gender minorities (SGM) may benefit from psychological interventions tailored to specific subpopulations (e.g., lesbians, gay men, bisexual people, transgender people) given differing experiences with stigma. However, determining the inclusion/exclusion process for subpopulation-specific interventions is challenging and recommendations for this process are scarce. We developed and evaluated a matching procedure to place 1183 SGM participants into four targeted online interventions designed to reduce internalized stigma for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. We evaluated participant attrition, efficacy, satisfaction with placement, and qualitative feedback across the four interventions. Results indicated that our matching procedure was time-efficient and largely successful in terms of low attrition, high satisfaction, and reaching segments of the SGM population not usually captured with the LGBT acronym. Based on these findings, we offer six practical guidelines for devising the inclusion/exclusion process or matching procedure for future subpopulation-specific SGM interventions studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Em Matsuno
- Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Joshua A Goodman
- Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Tania Israel
- Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Andrew Young Choi
- Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Yen-Jui Lin
- Los Angeles County, Department of Mental Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Krishna G Kary
- Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
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Agnew-Brune CB, Balaji AB, Mustanski B, Newcomb ME, Prachand N, Braunstein SL, Brady KA, Hoots BE, Smith JS, Paz-Bailey G, Broz D. Mental health, social support, and HIV-related sexual risk behaviors among HIV-negative adolescent sexual minority males: three U.S. cities, 2015. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:3419-3426. [PMID: 31065922 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02525-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
We examined the association between mental health issues, social support, and HIV among adolescent sexual minority males (SMM), who are disproportionally affected by HIV. National HIV Behavioral Surveillance among Young Men Who Have Sex with Men (NHBS-YMSM) data among SMM aged 13-18 years were collected in three cities (Chicago, New York City, and Philadelphia). Separate log-linked Poisson regression models were used to estimate associations between mental health issues and social support (general and family), and 3 HIV-related sexual risk behavior outcomes: past-year condomless anal intercourse (CAI) with a male partner, past-year sex with ≥ 4 partners, and first vaginal or anal sex before age 13. Of 547 adolescent SMM, 22% reported ever attempting suicide and 10% reported past-month suicidal ideation. The majority (52%) reported depression and anxiety. Thirty-nine percent reported CAI, 29% reported ≥ 4 sex partners and 22% reported first sex before age 13. Ever attempting suicide, suicidal ideation, and depression and anxiety were associated with CAI. Separately, ever attempting suicide and lack of family support were associated with ≥ 4 sex partners. None of the mental health or support measures were associated with having sex before age 13. General social support was not associated with any sexual risk behaviors. Mental health issues are common among adolescent SMM and associated with sexual risk behaviors. Including mental health support in comprehensive HIV prevention for adolescent SMM could potentially reduce HIV risk in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine B Agnew-Brune
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Mailstop E-46, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Alexandra B Balaji
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Mailstop E-46, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Department of Medical Social Science, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michael E Newcomb
- Department of Medical Social Science, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nik Prachand
- Chicago Department of Public Health, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Brooke E Hoots
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Mailstop E-46, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Justin S Smith
- Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gabriela Paz-Bailey
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Mailstop E-46, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dita Broz
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Mailstop E-46, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Matson M, Macapagal K, Kraus A, Coventry R, Bettin E, Fisher CB, Mustanski B. Sexual and gender minority youth's perspectives on sharing de-identified data in sexual health and HIV prevention research. SEXUALITY RESEARCH & SOCIAL POLICY : JOURNAL OF NSRC : SR & SP 2019; 16:1-11. [PMID: 31890053 PMCID: PMC6936765 DOI: 10.1007/s13178-018-0372-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Funding agencies encourage and sometimes require data sharing. However, there is limited empirical research on participant perspectives on sharing de-identified data from research on sensitive topics (e.g., HIV, sexual health) with other researchers, and virtually none from adolescents or sexual and gender minority (SGM) participants. SGM teens (N = 197) ages 14-17 completed an online survey with multiple choice and open-ended items assessing perspectives toward sharing survey responses and blood samples from sexual health and HIV testing studies with other researchers. SGM youth were willing to share data but frequently cited confidentiality and privacy concerns, including fears about parents finding out about their identities even after de-identification was explained. Researchers need to ensure youth understand explanations of data security protections in order to make well-informed decisions about participating in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Matson
- Department of Medical Social Sciences & Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (Chicago, IL)
| | - Kathryn Macapagal
- Department of Medical Social Sciences & Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (Chicago, IL)
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (Chicago, IL)
| | - Ashley Kraus
- Department of Medical Social Sciences & Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (Chicago, IL)
| | - Ryan Coventry
- Department of Medical Social Sciences & Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (Chicago, IL)
| | - Emily Bettin
- Department of Medical Social Sciences & Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (Chicago, IL)
| | - Celia B. Fisher
- Center for Ethics Education & Department of Psychology, Fordham University (Bronx, NY)
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Department of Medical Social Sciences & Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (Chicago, IL)
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (Chicago, IL)
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Unexplored Opportunities: Thoughts on Research to Improve Availability and Access to Sexual Health Services for Young Men Who Have Sex With Men. Med Care 2018; 55:100-101. [PMID: 28079672 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000000692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Kahle EM, Sharma A, Sullivan SP, Stephenson R. HIV Prioritization and Risk Perception Among an Online Sample of Men Who Have Sex With Men in the United States. Am J Mens Health 2018; 12:676-687. [PMID: 29781331 PMCID: PMC6131427 DOI: 10.1177/1557988318776581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) may prioritize interpersonal and structural
factors, such as LGBTQ-related inequalities, housing instability, financial
insecurity, and relationship seeking, over HIV prevention. The aim of this study
was to assess how MSM prioritize HIV relative to other factors and the
association between HIV prioritization, HIV testing and sexual risk behavior,
and perceived risk. Data were collected from a national online survey of MSM in
the United States assessing HIV knowledge and prioritization. Participants
ranked HIV prevention relative to LGBTQ-related concerns and life issues (e.g.,
housing, job, relationship). Adjusted regression models were conducted to assess
the association of HIV prioritization with HIV testing and condomless anal sex
(CAS) and to evaluate associations between perceived risk and HIV risk behavior.
Among 516 participants, HIV prevention was ranked significantly higher among MSM
reporting recent CAS (p = .04) and HIV testing within the past
(p = .02); HIV prevention was prioritized higher relative
to life issues among MSM reporting last HIV test more than 1 year ago
(p = .02). Perceived HIV risk was significantly associated
with higher HIV prioritization relative to LGBTQ concerns (p =
.001) and life issues (p = .001). Higher HIV perceived risk was
associated with lower odds of any CAS (p < .001) and higher
odds of having an HIV test in the past year (p < .001). In
this online study, HIV prioritization was identified as differentially
associated with HIV testing, sexual risk behavior, and perceived HIV risk. HIV
prevention programs should integrate strategies to address social and structural
inequalities based on priority needs of MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin M Kahle
- 1 Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Akshay Sharma
- 1 Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Stephen P Sullivan
- 1 Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- 1 Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Mustanski B, Swann G, Newcomb ME, Prachand N. Effects of Parental Monitoring and Knowledge on Substance Use and HIV Risk Behaviors Among Young Men Who have Sex with Men: Results from Three Studies. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:2046-2058. [PMID: 28417252 PMCID: PMC5804483 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1761-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Young men who have sex with men (YMSM) are disproportionately impacted by HIV/AIDS and have elevated rates of substance use. Parenting practices, such as knowledge of child whereabouts and monitoring of behavioral rules, protect against these outcomes among heterosexual youth. This article examined the relationship between these parenting practices and substance use and HIV risk behaviors among YMSM. Data are reported from three similar studies of YMSM: ChiGuys (ages 14-18), Crew 450 (ages 16-22), and RADAR (ages 16-29). The ChiGuys and RADAR studies report cross-sectional analyses, whereas Crew 450 reports latent growth curve analyses. In ChiGuys and Crew 450, participants reported significantly higher scores for parental knowledge of general activities than parental knowledge of gay-specific activities. Parental knowledge of general activities was significantly associated with less binge drinking in both samples and with condomless sex in the ChiGuys sample. Parental monitoring was significantly associated with less marijuana use and condomless sex in younger RADAR participants (16-18 years) and with less drug use in older participants (>18 years). Findings support the need for further research on the influences of parents on YMSM health risk behaviors and the value of exploring family- and parent-interventions to address YMSM health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Mustanski
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, 625 N Michigan Ave Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - Gregory Swann
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michael E Newcomb
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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