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Town MA, Freeman I, Cool RJ, Klein CH. The HIV Environmental Riskscape: The Roles of HIV Sexual Risk and Resilience Factors among Black Men Who Have Sex with Men: Findings from the Real Talk Project. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04418-8. [PMID: 38900312 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04418-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Black and African American men who have sex with men (Black MSM) experience the greatest proportion of new HIV infections in the United States. To address this challenge, a better understanding of the HIV environment riskscape including both risk and resilience factors is warranted among Black MSM. Research indicates that stress is associated with increased HIV sexual risk behaviors. Further, behavioral factors such as serosorting and community level factors including social support and community connection are resilience factors that protect against risk behaviors. The present study examines whether everyday stress is associated with HIV sexual risk behavior, as well as the role of risk and resilience factors among 125 Black MSM recruited in the Real Talk study. The Real Talk project examined the relationships between resilience, HIV risk behaviors, and HIV prevention strategy among a sample of Black MSM. Using generalized estimating equations, our results indicate a positive association between everyday stress and engaging in condomless anal intercourse only after adjusting for risk, resilience, and correlate variables. Similarly, having multiple sex partners and using substances during sex also show positive associations with condomless anal intercourse. Resilience factors of engaging in serosorting and being connected to both the Black and gay communities were negatively associated with condomless anal intercourse. Future prevention research and programming should focus on both risk and resilience factors to mitigate new HIV infections among Black MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Alan Town
- School of Social Work, Portland State University, 1800 SW 6th Ave, Portland, OR, 97201, USA.
| | - Ilana Freeman
- Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Ronnie James Cool
- Respiratory Therapy Program, Concorde Career College, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Charles H Klein
- Department of Anthropology, Portland State University, Portland, OR, USA
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2
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Feelemyer J, Duncan DT, Akhidenor N, Mazumdar M, Irvine NM, Scheidell JD, Brewer RA, Turpin RE, Hucks-Ortiz C, Dyer TV, Cleland CM, Mayer KH, Khan MR. Police Harassment and Psychiatric, Sexual, and Substance Use Risk Among Black Sexual Minority Men and Black Transgender Women in the HIV Prevention Trials 061 Cohort. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024:10.1007/s40615-024-01909-1. [PMID: 38609695 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-024-01909-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black sexual minority men and Black transgender women (BSMM/BTW) experience disproportionate levels of HIV/STI-related risk factors as well as police harassment (PH). PH is linked to psychiatric risk and could play a role in substance use, sexual risk behavior, and HIV/STI risk. METHODS We used data from the HIV Prevention Trials Network 061(HPTN 061) study to examine associations between PH and HIV/STI-related outcomes. Using PH exposure measured at baseline and 6-month study visits, we examined an ordinal exposure (PH reported at both visits, PH reported at either visit, versus PH reported at neither baseline nor 6 months) and a binary exposure of persistent PH reported at both visits (yes versus no). We estimate risk ratios (RR) for associations between PH and depression, use of alcohol and methamphetamine, multiple partnerships, condomless sex, and syphilis. RESULTS Persistent PH (binary) was associated with a 20% or greater increase in the risk of depression (RR, 1.26 (1.07, 1.47)) and multiple partnerships (RR, 1.20 (1.05, 1.39)). There was evidence that ordinal PH was associated with elevated risk of alcohol use (RR, 1.17 (1.00, 1.36)); the point estimate for the association between persistent PH and alcohol use was similar but the imprecision was greater (RR, 1.16 (0.95, 1.42)). CONCLUSION PH may influence not only mental health but also behavioral risks that contribute to HIV/STI among BSMM/BTW, highlighting the potential wide-ranging and downstream effects of PH on health. Further research is required to confirm associations and elucidate pathways through which PH may influence HIV/STI among BSMM/BTW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Feelemyer
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Dustin T Duncan
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Naomi Akhidenor
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Medha Mazumdar
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Natalia M Irvine
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joy D Scheidell
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Rodman E Turpin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA
| | | | - Typhanye V Dyer
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Charles M Cleland
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- Fenway Institute, Fenway Health and Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maria R Khan
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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3
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França M, Dourado I, Grangeiro A, Greco D, Magno L. Racial HIV Testing Inequalities in Adolescent Men who have Sex with Men and Transgender Women in Three Brazilian Cities. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04297-z. [PMID: 38526640 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04297-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Many barriers to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing among Black people exist. This study analysed the association between race/skin colour and lifetime HIV testing among adolescent men who have sex with men (AMSM) and transgender women (ATGW) in three Brazilian cities. This cross-sectional study was nested within the PrEP1519 cohort, a multicentre study of AMSM and ATGW aged 15-19 years in Belo Horizonte, Salvador, and São Paulo, Brazil. The outcome variable was the lifetime HIV testing (no or yes). The main exposure variable was self-reported race/skin colour as White and a unique Black group (composed of Pardo-mixed colour and Black, according to the Brazilian classification). Descriptive statistics and bivariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to estimate the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) to determine the association between the main exposure and outcome, adjusted for covariates. White adolescents were tested more frequently than the unique Black group (64.0% vs. 53.7%, respectively; Ρ = 0.001). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the unique Black group of AMSM and ATGW had 26% (adjusted OR [aOR], 0.74; 95% CI, 0.55-0.98) and 38% (aOR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.45-0.87) lower odds of being tested for HIV in a lifetime than Whites in model 1 and 2, respectively. Our findings highlight the role of racism in lifetime HIV testing among AMSM and ATGW. Therefore, an urgent need for advances exists in public policies to combat racism in Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus França
- Departamento de Ciências da Vida, Universidade do Estado da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Inês Dourado
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Grangeiro
- Faculdade de Medicina Preventiva, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dirceu Greco
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Laio Magno
- Departamento de Ciências da Vida, Universidade do Estado da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
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4
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Reid R, Dale SK. Structural equation modeling of microaggressions, religious and racism-related coping, medication adherence, and viral load among Black women living with HIV. J Behav Med 2023; 46:837-848. [PMID: 36997766 DOI: 10.1007/s10865-023-00403-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Despite the disproportionate impact of HIV, microaggressions, and discrimination among Black women living with HIV (BWLWH), BWLWH have demonstrated resilience by mobilizing religious and other coping strategies. The current study sought to examine whether racism-related or religious coping moderates the relationship between latent gendered racial microaggressions (GRMs), antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and viral load (VL) among 119 BWLWH. Data was collected via self-report measures of GRMs and coping. ART adherence was measured via self-report and electronic monitoring and VL was measured via blood specimens. Structural equation modeling showed significant main effects of religious coping on adherence and VL. Furthermore, GRMs × racism-related coping and GRMs × religious coping significantly predicted adherence and VL. Our findings indicate the unique and culturally salient role of religious and racism-related coping among BWLWH in the context of GRMs. Such findings may be optimized in the development of culturally relevant multilevel interventions for BWLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachelle Reid
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, 5665 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Miami, FL, 33146, USA
| | - Sannisha K Dale
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, 5665 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Miami, FL, 33146, USA.
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5
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Whitfield DL, Miller RS, Escobar-Viera CG, Mammadli T, Brown AL, Gordon JD, Chandler C. Effects of internalised racism and internalised homophobia on sexual behaviours among black gay and bisexual men in the USA: a systematic review protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e070969. [PMID: 37524550 PMCID: PMC10391786 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-070969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Black gay and bisexual men are overburdened by HIV in the USA. While the socioecological model has been applied to understand potential mechanisms of HIV acquisition among black gay and bisexual men, there is mixed evidence on the impact of internalised stigma on HIV risk among this population. This systematic review protocol paper outlines the systematic review being conducted to determine the relationship between internalised racism, internalised homophobia and engagement in sexual behaviour, which puts individuals at risk for HIV infection. METHODS AND ANALYSIS For the review, we will conduct a systematic review of the literature, summarise and critique published scholarly literature on the associations between forms of internalised stigma and sexual behaviours among black gay and bisexual men. We will conduct a systematic search of published qualitative and quantitative research studies published during and after 1993. The searches will be conducted in Ovid Medline, Ovid APA PsycInfo and EBSCO SocINDEX databases. Studies will be included if they were conducted in the USA, with samples that comprised African American/black cisgender gay, bisexual, queer and other men who have sex with men, measured internalised racism and/or internalised homophobia, and assessed sexual behaviour risk for HIV acquisition. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION No ethical approval will be required for this review. We will report our findings using the guidelines outlined by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Findings of this review may offer new opportunities to study internalised mechanisms impacting outcomes and to identify research gaps and spur additional queries in the group most disproportionately impacted by HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rebekah S Miller
- Health Sciences Library System, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - César G Escobar-Viera
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral and Community Health Systems, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tural Mammadli
- School of Social Work, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andre L Brown
- Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, Cuyahoga County Board of Health, Parma, Ohio, USA
| | - Jacob D Gordon
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Cristian Chandler
- Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Public Health, Vanderbilt Center for Health Services Research, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Eschliman EL, Poku OB, Winiker AK, Latkin CA, Tobin KE. Associations between social network characteristics and sexual minority disclosure concern among Black men who have sex with men living with and without HIV. THE JOURNAL OF SOCIAL ISSUES 2023; 79:390-409. [PMID: 37215260 PMCID: PMC10195063 DOI: 10.1111/josi.12566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
In addition to the pervasive anti-Black racism faced by Black people in the United States, Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) face sexual minority stigma and, among BMSM living with HIV, HIV-related stigma. These multilevel social forces shape social networks, which are important sources of resources, support, and behavior regulation. This study quantitatively examined the relationship between social network characteristics and sexual minority stigma (e.g., homophobia, biphobia), assessed by reported concerns around disclosing one's sexual minority status, among BMSM in Baltimore, Maryland in 2014 (N = 336). A majority of participants (63.7%) reported experiencing medium or high levels of sexual minority disclosure concern. In a multiple linear regression model, participants with higher sexual minority disclosure concern reported lower network density and having fewer good friends who are gay or bisexual men. Stratifying the same multiple linear regression model by HIV status supports the importance of an intersectional understanding of sexual minority and HIV-related stigma. These findings can help health-related programs address the complex relationships between sexual minority stigma, social networks, and HIV status within this multiply-marginalized and high-priority population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan L. Eschliman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | - Ohemaa B. Poku
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, Columbia University and New York Psychiatric Institute
| | - Abigail K. Winiker
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | - Carl A. Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | - Karin E. Tobin
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
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Mutchler MG, Wagner GJ, McDavitt B, Woldetsadik MA, Kegeles SM, El-Khoury C, Nogg KA, Klinger IA, Mokhbat J, Ballan EG. Psychometric Properties of a Scale on Judgmental Communication with Peers About Sex Among YMSM and Their Close Friends in Lebanon. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3089-3098. [PMID: 35322311 PMCID: PMC10234618 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03640-6] [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] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We are not aware of any validated sexual health communication scales for use with young men who have sex with men (YMSM). We used data from an HIV prevention study in Lebanon with 226 YMSM aged 18-29 to assess the psychometric characteristics of our scale, Judgmental Communication with Peers about Sex (JCPS). The construct validity of the JCPS scale was supported by it being negatively correlated with general social support, percentage of alters perceived to be supportive, and the percentage of peers who are perceived to use condoms. The scale was positively correlated with gay-related discrimination, feeling part of the gay community, and gay social integration. These findings reflect a reliable, valid measure to assess judgmental sexual health communication between YMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matt G Mutchler
- Department of Health Science, California State University, Dominguez Hills, 1000 E. Victoria Street, Carson, CA, 90747, USA.
- Community-Based Research, AIDS Project Los Angeles (APLA Health), Los Angeles, USA.
| | | | - Bryce McDavitt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
| | | | - Susan M Kegeles
- University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, USA
| | | | | | - Ian A Klinger
- Community-Based Research, AIDS Project Los Angeles (APLA Health), Los Angeles, USA
- Department of Sociology, California State University, Dominguez Hills, Carson, USA
| | | | - Elie G Ballan
- The Arab Foundation for Freedoms and Equality, Beirut, Lebanon
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8
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Doherty R, Walsh JL, Quinn KG, John SA. Association of Race and Other Social Determinants of Health With HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Use: A County-Level Analysis Using the PrEP-to-Need Ratio. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2022; 34:183-194. [PMID: 35647866 PMCID: PMC9196948 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2022.34.3.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Research is limited on the effect of racism and social determinants of health on HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use. This study used the PrEP-to-Need Ratio (PNR), which measures PrEP prescriptions divided by HIV diagnoses in the county, to evaluate sufficient PrEP use. AIDSVu datasets were compared to county-level social determinants of health. Standardized regression coefficients (β) were compared to identify strongest associations with PNR. Overall, factors including percent African American and percent uninsured had negative correlations with PNR, whereas median household income and severe housing cost burden had positive associations. Stratifying for population size, percent African American, percent uninsured, and severe housing cost burden were significant for low population areas, whereas median household income, percent in poverty, percent uninsured, and percent African American were significant for large populations. To reduce PrEP disparities, public health must develop strategies to reach those most in need, especially historically disadvantaged communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Doherty
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Walsh
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Katherine G. Quinn
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Steven A. John
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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9
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Dale SK, Ayala G, Logie CH, Bowleg L. Addressing HIV-Related Intersectional Stigma and Discrimination to Improve Public Health Outcomes: An AJPH Supplement. Am J Public Health 2022; 112:S335-S337. [PMID: 35763724 PMCID: PMC9241474 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2022.306738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sannisha K Dale
- Sannisha K. Dale is with the Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Miami, FL. George Ayala is with the Alameda County Public Health Department, San Leandro, CA. Carmen H. Logie is with the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment & Health, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Lisa Bowleg is with the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - George Ayala
- Sannisha K. Dale is with the Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Miami, FL. George Ayala is with the Alameda County Public Health Department, San Leandro, CA. Carmen H. Logie is with the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment & Health, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Lisa Bowleg is with the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Carmen H Logie
- Sannisha K. Dale is with the Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Miami, FL. George Ayala is with the Alameda County Public Health Department, San Leandro, CA. Carmen H. Logie is with the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment & Health, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Lisa Bowleg is with the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Lisa Bowleg
- Sannisha K. Dale is with the Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Miami, FL. George Ayala is with the Alameda County Public Health Department, San Leandro, CA. Carmen H. Logie is with the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment & Health, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Lisa Bowleg is with the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC
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Trujillo L, Robbins T, Morris E, Sionean C, Agnew-Brune C. Material Hardship and Association With Sexual Risk Behavior Among Adolescent Sexual Minority Males in 3 US Cities-National HIV Behavioral Surveillance-Young Men Who Have Sex With Men, 2015. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 89:159-165. [PMID: 34620804 PMCID: PMC10206754 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002828] [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] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescent sexual minority males (ASMMs) are disproportionately affected by HIV relative to other youth within the United States. Social determinants of health have been explored among this population; however, economic determinants, such as material hardship, remain understudied. We examined the relationship between material hardship and sexual behavior among ASMMs aged 13-18 years residing in 3 US cities using 2015 data from CDC's National HIV Behavioral Surveillance among Young Men Who Have Sex with Men. METHODS Young men ages 13-18 years residing in 3 US cities were recruited through venue-based, respondent-driven, or Facebook sampling. We estimated adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for condomless anal intercourse (CAI) with a male sex partner in the past 12 months and with having 4 or more male sex partners in the past 12 months. RESULTS Of 547 ASMMs, 27% reported experiencing material hardship in the past 12 months. After adjusting for demographics, household characteristics, and city, ASMMs who experienced material hardship were more likely to report CAI with a male partner in the past 12 months (aPR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.25 to 1.93) and to have had 4 or more male sex partners in the past 12 months (aPR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.08 to 1.91). DISCUSSION More than a quarter of ASMMs experienced material hardship that was associated with increased sexual risk behavior among ASMMs. Incorporating services that address all unmet needs is important to consider for HIV prevention efforts for ASMMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Trujillo
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge Associated Universities, Oak Ridge, TN
| | - Taylor Robbins
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Elana Morris
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Catlainn Sionean
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Christine Agnew-Brune
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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Uncaring landscapes and HIV peer support in the rural Southern United States. Soc Sci Med 2021; 292:114628. [PMID: 34894459 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Despite social determinants being central to LGBTQ health inequities, they are scarcely targeted by federal public health interventions. Racism, sexual stigma, and social disconnection, in particular, contribute to numerous LGBTQ health inequities including HIV. This article explores the case of a peer support group at a federally supported HIV care center in a rural Southern (US) location alongside oral history interviews with queer-identifying Black men recorded in the same region. Geographies of care literature center trusting social relations in care provision. For the narrators, unchecked harmful social relations vis a vis stigma and disconnection from queer collectivity produce an 'uncaring landscape' in the geographic environment. The peer support group diverged from the stipulated context of HIV to offer space for queer collectivity and destigmatizing social care. The findings support a more radical, expansive provision of state-supported care for sexual minorities.
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12
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Wright SS, Johnson DB, Bernstein KT, Valentine JA. Program-Level Strategies for Addressing Sexually Transmitted Disease Disparities: Overcoming Critical Determinants That Impede Sexual Health. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 48:e174-e177. [PMID: 33783408 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shauntā S Wright
- From the Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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13
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The Co-Evolution of Network Structure and PrEP Adoption among a Large Cohort of PrEP Peer Leaders: Implications for Intervention Evaluation and Community Capacity-Building. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18116051. [PMID: 34199829 PMCID: PMC8200056 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18116051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: Peer leader interventions are effective strategies for promoting prevention behaviors in communities at risk for HIV, yet little is known about their effects on the social and behavioral dynamics of peer leaders themselves. Methods: Using data from PrEP Chicago, an RCT PrEP for prevention intervention for young Black MSM (YBMSM), we apply stochastic actor-based models to longitudinally model the impact of study participation on the online friendship and PrEP adoption dynamics among a network of peer leaders (n = 174) and a network of control group counterparts (n = 166). Results: Peer leaders assigned to the same leadership training workshop were more likely to form new Facebook friendships with one another, whereas control participants assigned to the same attention control workshop were no more or less likely to form new friendships. Further, peer leaders with greater PrEP intentions and those living with HIV were more active in forming new friendships with other peer leaders, effects not found in the control network. PrEP adoption was not influenced by network dynamics in either group. Conclusions: The implications of these findings are discussed through the lens of community-capacity building and the role that peer leader interventions and the networks they engage can impact public health.
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14
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Latent Profile Analysis of a Syndemic of Vulnerability Factors on Incident Sexually Transmitted Infection in a Cohort of Black Men Who Have Sex With Men Only and Black Men Who Have Sex With Men and Women in the HIV Prevention Trials Network 061 Study. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 47:571-579. [PMID: 32496390 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are important public health concerns among black men who have sex with men only (BMSMO), as well as those who have sex with both men and women (BMSMW). Sexually transmitted infections also increase risk of acquiring and HIV, which is also a critical concern. Compared with BMSMO, research shows that BMSMW experience elevated levels of HIV/STI vulnerability factors occurring at the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and social/structural levels. These factors may work independently, increasing one's risk of engaging in high-risk sexual behaviors, but often work in a synergistic and reinforcing manner. The synergism and reinforcement of any combination of these factors are known as a syndemic, which increases HIV/STI risk. METHODS Data from the HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) 061 study (n = 799) was used to conduct a latent profile analysis to identify unique combinations of risk factors that may form a syndemic and that may vary between BMSMO and BMSMW. We hypothesized that the convergence of syndemic factors would differ between groups and predict sexual risk and subsequent incident STI. RESULTS For BMSMO who had a high sexual risk profile, the syndemic factors characterizing this group included perceived racism, incarceration, intimate partner violence, depression, and binge drinking. For BMSMW with a high sexual risk profile, the syndemic factors that characterized this group were incarceration, depression, and binge drinking. CONCLUSIONS The current analysis highlights syndemic profiles that differentiated BMSMO and BMSMW from one another and supports the need for tailored interventions that address specific syndemic factors for both subpopulations of black men who have sex with men.
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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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16
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Quinn KG, Spector A, Takahashi L, Voisin DR. Conceptualizing the Effects of Continuous Traumatic Violence on HIV Continuum of Care Outcomes for Young Black Men Who Have Sex with Men in the United States. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:758-772. [PMID: 32944841 PMCID: PMC7886964 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03040-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The United States (US) is on track to achieve the 90-90-90 targets set forth by UNAIDS and the National HIV/AIDS strategy, yet significant racial disparities in HIV care outcomes remain, particularly for young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM). Research has demonstrated that various types of violence are key aspects of syndemics that contribute to disparities in HIV risk. However, little research has looked collectively at cumulative violent experiences and how those might affect HIV treatment and care outcomes. Drawing on extant literature and theoretical underpinnings of syndemics, we provide a conceptual model that highlights how continuous traumatic violence experienced by YBMSM may affect HIV outcomes and contribute to racial disparities in HIV outcomes. The findings of this focused review suggest a need for research on how continuous exposure to various types of violence influence HIV prevention and treatment outcomes for young Black MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine G Quinn
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research (CAIR), Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA.
| | - Antoinette Spector
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Institute for Health Equity, Milwaukee, USA
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17
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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: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [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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Tempalski B, Beane S, Cooper HLF, Friedman SR, McKetta SC, Ibragimov U, Williams LD, Stall R. Structural Determinants of Black MSM HIV Testing Coverage (2011-2016). AIDS Behav 2020; 24:2572-2587. [PMID: 32124108 PMCID: PMC7444860 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02814-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Over 30 years into the US HIV/AIDS epidemic, Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) continue to carry the highest burden of both HIV and AIDS cases. There is then, an urgent need to expand access to HIV prevention and treatment for all gay and bisexual men, underscoring the importance of the federal initiative 'Ending the Epidemic: A Plan for America'. This research examines structural factors associated with BMSM HIV testing coverage over time (2011-2016) in 85 US Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs). We calculated MSA-specific annual measures of BMSM HIV testing coverage (2011-2016). Variables suggested by the Theory of Community Action (i.e., need, resource availability, institutional opposition and organized support) were analyzed as possible predictors of coverage using multilevel modeling. Relationships between BMSM HIV testing and the following covariates were positive: rates of BMSM living with HIV (b = 0.28), percent of Black residents employed (b = 0.19), Black heterosexual testing rate (b = 0.46), health expenditures per capita (b = 0.16), ACT UP organization presence in 1992 (b = 0.19), and syringe service presence (b = 0.12). Hard drug arrest rates at baseline (b = - 0.21) and change since baseline (b = - 0.10) were inversely associated with the outcome. Need, resources availability, organized support and institutional opposition are important determinants of place associated with BMSM HIV testing coverage. Efforts to reduce HIV incidence and lessen AIDS-related disparities among BMSM in the US require improved and innovative HIV prevention approaches directed toward BMSM including a fuller understanding of structural factors that may influence place variation in BMSM testing patterns and risk behavior in places of high need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Tempalski
- Institute for Infectious Disease Research, National Development and Research Institutes, 71 West 23rd Street, 4th Fl, New York, NY, 10010, USA.
| | - Stephanie Beane
- Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Hannah L F Cooper
- Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Samuel R Friedman
- Department of Population Health, New York University, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Sarah C McKetta
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 W 168th St., New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Umedjon Ibragimov
- Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Leslie D Williams
- Division of Community Health Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago School of Public Health, 1603 W. Taylor Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Ronald Stall
- University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, 130 De Soto St., Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
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Buttram ME. The Social Environmental Context of Resilience Among Substance-Using African American/Black Men Who Have Sex With Men. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2020; 67:816-832. [PMID: 30614402 PMCID: PMC6612474 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2018.1557952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Resilience theory has been suggested as a framework for research on HIV prevention among men who have sex with men. Among this population, literature indicates that African American/Black men who have sex with men experience additional health disparities including elevated HIV incidence rates, victimization, and poor physical health. Conceptualizing resilience as a part of one's social environment, this qualitative study investigates resilience processes and HIV transmission risk among a sample of 21 substance-using African American/Black men who have sex with men. Data from in-depth interviews describe the social environmental context in which resilience is exhibited and document the influence of homophobia, expressions of agency, and access to social, economic, and cultural capital on resilience processes. Central to this are expressions of hidden resilience, in which African American/Black men who have sex with men mitigate risk and experience their lives as subjectively successful, whether or not outsiders see it as such.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mance E Buttram
- Center for Applied Research on Substance Use and Health Disparities, Nova Southeastern University, Miami, Florida, USA
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20
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Nguyen AC, Young LE, Beymer MR, Suen SC. Developing targeted HIV risk predictors for young black men who have sex with men: a two-city comparative study. Int J STD AIDS 2020; 31:335-344. [PMID: 32089091 DOI: 10.1177/0956462419886472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
HIV burden in the United States is geographically and demographically heterogeneous. While efforts over the last few decades have reduced HIV incidence, young black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) account for a significant portion of new HIV diagnoses compared to any other race and age group. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has allocated funding to help reduce HIV in the YBMSM community; however, their recommended screening/treatment criteria do not emphasize demographic specificity. To better guide more applicable screening guidelines specifically for YBMSM, we examine demographic, behavioral, sexual network, and biological predictors of HIV status among YBMSM in two demographically distinct cities with high HIV burden in the United States: Chicago, IL and Los Angeles, CA. We perform multivariable logistic regressions to identify predictors of HIV in these populations. We found that having a history of syphilis was the only statistically significant predictor across both cities despite inclusion of other characteristics previously shown to be associated with HIV among YBMSM. Syphilis history could be a powerful HIV risk indicator for YBMSM and, therefore, should be integrated into clinical screening practices for critical biomedical prevention options like HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony C Nguyen
- Daniel J. Epstein Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lindsay E Young
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Matthew R Beymer
- Department of Health and Mental Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sze-Chuan Suen
- Daniel J. Epstein Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Alio AP, Sibley C, Ouedraogo HS, Wallace SE, Wakefield S, Humes DL, Fields SD, Keefer MC. House Ball Community Leaders' Perceptions of HIV and HIV Vaccine Research. Int J MCH AIDS 2020; 9:136-145. [PMID: 32123636 PMCID: PMC7031880 DOI: 10.21106/ijma.331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND OR OBJECTIVES Worldwide, men who have sex with men (MSM) and Transgender persons are vulnerable to psychosocial factors associated with high risk for HIV, and suffer disproportionately high rates of HIV/AIDS. In the United States (US), the House Ball Community (HBC) is a social network comprised predominantly of Black and Hispanic MSM and Transgender persons who reside in communal settings. This study explores Western New York HBC leaders' perceptions of HIV in their communities and their knowledge of HIV prevention strategies, including HIV vaccine trials. METHODS The project was conducted using an exploratory approach based on the principles of Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) methods. An HIV behavioral risk assessment provided descriptive data, while qualitative measures explored psychosocial and behavioral factors. RESULTS Behavioral assessments indicated high levels of risky sexual behaviors and experiences of violence. Interviews with 14 HBC leaders revealed that knowledge of HIV and local HIV vaccines trials was limited. Barriers to HIV knowledge included fear of peer judgment, having inaccurate information, and lack of formal education. Experiencing violence was identified as barrier to positive health behavior. Nevertheless, the HBC was described as a safe and creative space for marginalized MSM and Transgender youth. CONCLUSION AND GLOBAL HEALTH IMPLICATIONS Findings suggest that the interrelation between health problems and social context amplify HIV risk in the HBC. The organizational structure and resources of the HBC, and MSM/Transgender communities worldwide can be instrumental in informing interventions to address HIV-related risk behaviors and create appropriate recruitment tools to ensure their representation in HIV research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina P Alio
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Public Health Sciences, Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, 265 Crittenden Blvd, Rochester NY, 14642, USA
| | - Candace Sibley
- ICF International, 3 Corporate Blvd NE #370, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Halimah S Ouedraogo
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Public Health Sciences, Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, 265 Crittenden Blvd, Rochester NY, 14642, USA
| | - Stephaun E Wallace
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Steven Wakefield
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Damon L Humes
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Sheldon D Fields
- New York Institute of Technology, School of Health Professions, Riland Academic Health Center, Room 347, Old Westbury, NY, 11568, USA
| | - Michael C Keefer
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Public Health Sciences, Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, 265 Crittenden Blvd, Rochester NY, 14642, USA
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22
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Storholm ED, Huang W, Siconolfi DE, Pollack LM, Carrico AW, Vincent W, Rebchook GM, Huebner DM, Wagner GJ, Kegeles SM. Sources of Resilience as Mediators of the Effect of Minority Stress on Stimulant Use and Sexual Risk Behavior Among Young Black Men who have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:3384-3395. [PMID: 31273490 PMCID: PMC6919270 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02572-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The greatest proportion of new HIV infections among men who have sex with men (MSM) is occurring among young Black MSM (YBMSM) ages 13-24. Consequently, research is needed to understand the psychosocial pathways that influence HIV risk and resilience in YBMSM. Minority Stress Theory proposes that the stigma, prejudice, and discrimination facing sexual and racial minorities are chronic stressors that lead to increased engagement in risk behaviors. The present study examined whether minority stress is associated with stimulant use and sexual risk behaviors by depleting psychosocial resilience. We recruited 1817 YBMSM, ages 18-29, from multiple venues in two major cities in Texas for participation in a brief survey. Results from structural equation modeling indicated that decreased resilience partially mediated the association of minority stress with sexual risk behavior. Resilience was also negatively associated with stimulant use. Interventions focused on cultivating psychosocial resilience could mitigate the deleterious consequences of minority stress and reduce stimulant use in YBMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik D Storholm
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Office 5227, Santa Monica, CA, 90407, USA.
| | - Wenjing Huang
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Office 5227, Santa Monica, CA, 90407, USA
| | - Daniel E Siconolfi
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Office 5227, Santa Monica, CA, 90407, USA
| | - Lance M Pollack
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | | | - Wilson Vincent
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Gregory M Rebchook
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - David M Huebner
- School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Glenn J Wagner
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Office 5227, Santa Monica, CA, 90407, USA
| | - Susan M Kegeles
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
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Abstract
Black people living with HIV (BPLWH) are less likely to adhere to antiretroviral treatment than are members of other racial/ethnic groups. Data were combined from two studies of BPLWH (n = 239) to estimate adherence trajectories using a semiparametric, group-based modeling strategy over three time-points (spanning 6 months). Analyses identified three groups of individuals (high-stable, moderately low-stable, low-decreasing). Multinomial logistic regressions were used to predict trajectory membership with multiple levels of socio-ecological factors (structural, institutional/health system, community, interpersonal/network, individual). Older age was associated with being in the high-stable group, whereas substance use, lower perceived treatment effectiveness, and lower quality healthcare ratings were related to being in the moderately low-stable group. In sum, multiple socio-ecological factors contribute to adherence among BPLWH and thus could be targeted in future intervention efforts.
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Khan MR, McGinnis KA, Grov C, Scheidell JD, Hawks L, Edelman EJ, Fiellin DA, McInnes DK, Braithwaite RS, Justice AC, Wang EA. Past year and prior incarceration and HIV transmission risk among HIV-positive men who have sex with men in the US .. AIDS Care 2019; 31:349-356. [PMID: 30064277 PMCID: PMC6699634 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1499861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Three quarters of new HIV infections in the US are among men who have sex with men (MSM). In other populations, incarceration is a social determinant of elevations in viral load and HIV-related substance use and sex risk behavior. There has been limited research on incarceration and these HIV transmission risk determinants in HIV-positive MSM. We used the Veterans Aging Cohort Study (VACS) 2011-2012 follow-up survey to measure associations between past year and prior (more than one year ago) incarceration and HIV viral load and substance use and sex risk behavior among HIV-positive MSM (N = 532). Approximately 40% had ever been incarcerated, including 9% in the past year. In analyses adjusting for sociodemographic factors, past year and prior incarceration were strongly associated with detectable viral load (HIV-1 RNA >500 copies/mL) (past year adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 3.50 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.59, 7.71; prior AOR: 2.48 95% CI: 1.44, 4.29) and past 12 month injection drug use (AORs > 6), multiple sex partnerships (AORs > 1.8), and condomless sex in the context of substance use (AORs > 3). Past year incarceration also was strongly associated with alcohol and non-injection drug use (AOR > 2.5). Less than one in five HIV-positive MSM recently released from incarceration took advantage of a jail/prison re-entry health care program available to veterans. We need to reach HIV-positive MSM leaving jails and prisons to improve linkage to care and clinical outcomes and reduce transmission risk upon release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria R Khan
- a Division of Comparative Effectiveness and Decision Science, Department of Population Health , New York University School of Medicine , New York , NY , USA
| | | | - Christian Grov
- c CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy & The CUNY Institute for Implementation Science and Population Health , New York , NY , USA
| | - Joy D Scheidell
- a Division of Comparative Effectiveness and Decision Science, Department of Population Health , New York University School of Medicine , New York , NY , USA
| | - Laura Hawks
- d Department of Internal Medicine , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , CT , USA
| | - E Jennifer Edelman
- d Department of Internal Medicine , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , CT , USA
- e Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS , Yale School of Public Health , New Haven , CT , USA
| | - David A Fiellin
- d Department of Internal Medicine , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , CT , USA
- e Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS , Yale School of Public Health , New Haven , CT , USA
| | - D Keith McInnes
- f Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial VA Medical Center , Bedford , MA , USA
- g Department of Health Law, Policy, and Management , Boston University School of Public Health , Boston , MA , USA
| | - R Scott Braithwaite
- a Division of Comparative Effectiveness and Decision Science, Department of Population Health , New York University School of Medicine , New York , NY , USA
| | - Amy C Justice
- b VA Connecticut Healthcare System , West Haven , CT , USA
- d Department of Internal Medicine , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , CT , USA
- e Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS , Yale School of Public Health , New Haven , CT , USA
| | - Emily A Wang
- d Department of Internal Medicine , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , CT , USA
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Choi SK, LeGrand S, Dong W, Muessig KE, Hightow-Weidman L. Condom use intentions mediate the relationships between psychosocial constructs and HIV sexual risk behavior in young Black men who have sex with men. AIDS Care 2019; 31:53-60. [PMID: 29950106 PMCID: PMC6301140 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1492695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
HIV prevention interventions that reduce sexual risk behaviors among young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM), the most severely affected population in the United States, are critical for reducing disparities in HIV infection. However, there are few theory-based sexual risk reduction interventions designed specifically for YBMSM. This study tested the applicability of the Integrated Behavioral Model (IBM), which theorizes that behavioral intentions mediate the relationship between psychosocial constructs and health behavior on condomless anal intercourse (CAI) among YBMSM. To test key constructs of the IBM, analyses were conducted with baseline data from the HealthMpowerment (HMP) randomized controlled trial. Logistic regression was used to examine the relationships between condom use self-efficacy, norms, attitudes, intentions, and environmental constraints, and CAI. Mediation analysis was conducted to determine if condom use intentions mediated the relationship between psychosocial constructs (i.e., condom use self-efficacy, norms, and attitudes) and CAI. Overall 55.7% reported one or more acts of CAI with a male partner in the past 3 months. Those who reported CAI in the 3 months prior to the baseline survey reported lower self-efficacy for condom use, lower condom use norms, more negative attitudes toward condom use, and lower condom use intentions at baseline than those who reported no CAI. In mediation analysis, the relationships between CAI and self-efficacy for condom use (estimated indirect effect = -0.004 (SE = 0.002)), condom use norms (-0.002 (SE = 0.001)) and attitudes toward condom use (-0.005 (SE = 0.002)) were mediated by condom use intentions. This study applied the IBM to sexual risk behavior among a sample of YBMSM. Results indicate that the relationships between condom use self-efficacy, norms, and attitudes, and CAI were mediated by condom use intentions. Future theory-informed interventions should focus on increasing self-efficacy for condom use, condom use norms, attitudes toward condom use, and condom use intentions to reduce CAI among YBMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seul Ki Choi
- a Department of Health Behavior , University of North Carolina , Chapel Hill , NC , USA
| | - Sara LeGrand
- b Duke Global Health Institute , Duke University , Durham , NC , USA
| | - Willa Dong
- a Department of Health Behavior , University of North Carolina , Chapel Hill , NC , USA
| | - Kathryn E Muessig
- a Department of Health Behavior , University of North Carolina , Chapel Hill , NC , USA
| | - Lisa Hightow-Weidman
- c Division of Global Health and Infectious Diseases , University of North Carolina , Chapel Hill , NC , USA
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Harper GW, Jadwin-Cakmak L, Cherenak E, Wilson P. Critical Consciousness-Based HIV Prevention Interventions for Black Gay and Bisexual Male Youth. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SEXUALITY EDUCATION 2018; 14:109-133. [PMID: 30956625 PMCID: PMC6448792 DOI: 10.1080/15546128.2018.1479668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Black gay/bisexual male youth are one of the groups most affected by HIV in the U.S., but few behavioral interventions have been created specifically to address this health inequity. Oppression related to these youths' multiple social identities - including racism, heterosexism, and HIV stigma - contribute to increased health risks. Primary and secondary HIV prevention interventions created specifically for Black gay/bisexual male youth that address the negative impact of oppression are urgently needed. We present empowerment as a framework for understanding how oppression affects health, and critical consciousness as a tool to be utilized in behavioral interventions. This approach helps to move Black gay/bisexual male youth from a place of oppression and powerlessness that leads to elevated health risks to a position of empowerment that promotes feelings of control and participation in healthy behaviors. Finally, we present a case example of our own critical consciousness-based secondary HIV prevention intervention created specifically for Black gay/bisexual male youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary W Harper
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, 1415 Washington Heights, School of Public Health I, Room 2272, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, ; 734-647-9778
| | - Laura Jadwin-Cakmak
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, Center for Sexuality & Health Disparities, 400 North Ingalls St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, ; 734-763-2884
| | - Emily Cherenak
- Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Department of Sociomedical Sciences, 722 W. 168th Street, 5th Floor, New York NY USA 10032, ; 908-303-0786
| | - Patrick Wilson
- Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Department of Sociomedical Sciences, 722 W. 168th Street, 5th Floor, New York NY USA 10032, ; 212-305-1852
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Khanna AS, Goodreau SM, Michaels S, Schneider JA. Using Partially-Observed Facebook Networks to Develop a Peer-Based HIV Prevention Intervention: Case Study. J Med Internet Res 2018; 20:e11652. [PMID: 30217793 PMCID: PMC6231846 DOI: 10.2196/11652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This is a case study from an HIV prevention project among young black men who have sex with men. Individual-level prevention interventions have had limited success among young black men who have sex with men, a population that is disproportionately affected by HIV; peer network–based interventions are a promising alternative. Facebook is an attractive digital platform because it enables broad characterization of social networks. There are, however, several challenges in using Facebook data for peer interventions, including the large size of Facebook networks, difficulty in assessing appropriate methods to identify candidate peer change agents, boundary specification issues, and partial observation of social network data. Objective This study aimed to explore methodological challenges in using social Facebook networks to design peer network–based interventions for HIV prevention and present techniques to overcome these challenges. Methods Our sample included 298 uConnect study respondents who answered a bio-behavioral survey in person and whose Facebook friend lists were downloaded (2013-2014). The study participants had over 180,000 total Facebook friends who were not involved in the study (nonrespondents). We did not observe friendships between these nonrespondents. Given the large number of nonrespondents whose networks were partially observed, a relational boundary was specified to select nonrespondents who were well connected to the study respondents and who may be more likely to influence the health behaviors of young black men who have sex with men. A stochastic model-based imputation technique, derived from the exponential random graph models, was applied to simulate 100 networks where unobserved friendships between nonrespondents were imputed. To identify peer change agents, the eigenvector centrality and keyplayer positive algorithms were used; both algorithms are suitable for identifying individuals in key network positions for information diffusion. For both algorithms, we assessed the sensitivity of identified peer change agents to the imputation model, the stability of identified peer change agents across the imputed networks, and the effect of the boundary specification on the identification of peer change agents. Results All respondents and 78.9% (183/232) of nonrespondents selected as peer change agents by eigenvector on the imputed networks were also selected as peer change agents on the observed networks. For keyplayer, the agreement was much lower; 42.7% (47/110) and 35.3% (110/312) of respondent and nonrespondent peer change agents, respectively, selected on the imputed networks were also selected on the observed network. Eigenvector also produced a stable set of peer change agents across the 100 imputed networks and was much less sensitive to the specified relational boundary. Conclusions Although we do not have a gold standard indicating which algorithm produces the most optimal set of peer change agents, the lower sensitivity of eigenvector centrality to key assumptions leads us to conclude that it may be preferable. The methods we employed to address the challenges in using Facebook networks may prove timely, given the rapidly increasing interest in using online social networks to improve population health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditya Subhash Khanna
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Steven Michael Goodreau
- Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Anthropology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | | | - John Alexis Schneider
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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Griffith DM. "Centering the Margins": Moving Equity to the Center of Men's Health Research. Am J Mens Health 2018; 12:1317-1327. [PMID: 29749300 PMCID: PMC6142151 DOI: 10.1177/1557988318773973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
How might the science of men's health progress if research on marginalized or subordinated men is moved from the margins of the literature to the center? This commentary seeks to answer this question, suggesting that if more attention is paid to men of color and other marginalized men, the field will be greatly enriched in its ability to understand determinants of men's health. Reimagining men's health by moving men's health disparities to a primary focus of the field may yield critical new insights that would be essential to moving men's health to the center of health equity research. Focusing on the dual goals of improving the health of marginalized men and examining the determinants of disparities among men and between men and women will yield insights into mechanisms, pathways, and strategies to improve men's health and address health disparities. Current definitions of health disparities limit the nation's ability to dedicate resources to populations that need attention-men of color and other marginalized men-that do not fit these definitions. Moving marginalized men to the center of research in men's health will foster new ways of understanding determinants of men's health that cannot be identified without focusing on populations of men whose health is as influenced by race, ethnicity, and other structures of marginalization as it is by gender and masculinities. Using Black men as a case example, the article illustrates how studying marginalized men can refine the study of men's health and health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek M. Griffith
- Center for Research on Men’s Health, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Center for Medicine, Health and Society, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
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Sharma A, Kahle EM, Sullivan SP, Stephenson R. Birth Cohort Variations Across Functional Knowledge of HIV Prevention Strategies, Perceived Risk, and HIV-Associated Behaviors Among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex With Men in the United States. Am J Mens Health 2018; 12:1824-1834. [PMID: 30051744 PMCID: PMC6199423 DOI: 10.1177/1557988318790875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in the United States remain heavily impacted by HIV. The purpose of this study was to describe intergenerational differences in functional knowledge of HIV prevention strategies, perceived risk, recent condomless anal sex (CAS), and HIV testing behavior. Eight hundred sexually active GBMSM were recruited via Facebook from August to September 2015, and administered a Web-based survey which included 12 multiple-choice questions to elicit data regarding functional knowledge of different HIV prevention approaches (e.g., condom use, pre-exposure prophylaxis post-exposure prophylaxis, treatment as prevention, circumcision). Cumulative logit and multivariable logistic models were formulated to examine birth cohort variations across four analytic outcomes. Younger generations were significantly more knowledgeable, as were GBMSM with higher education. Non-Hispanic non-White GBMSM and those reporting a bisexual/other sexual orientation had lower functional knowledge. Younger generations were equally concerned about contracting HIV as their older counterparts. Perceived risk was significantly higher among non-Hispanic non-White and Hispanic GBMSM, but lower among those with higher education and those in a relationship. Finally, birth cohort variations with respect to engaging in CAS with ≥2 men in the past 3 months and testing for HIV in the past year were not markedly pronounced. Younger GBMSM might be more knowledgeable about HIV prevention strategies compared to their predecessors, but are equally concerned about contracting HIV. Researchers and practitioners should consider intergenerational and other demographic differences while designing multifaceted HIV prevention programs for GBMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Sharma
- 1 Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,2 Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Erin M Kahle
- 1 Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,2 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, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,2 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, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,2 Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Al-Ajlouni YA, Park SH, Schneider JA, Goedel WC, Rhodes Hambrick H, Hickson DA, Cantor MN, Duncan DT. Partner meeting venue typology and sexual risk behaviors among French men who have sex with men. Int J STD AIDS 2018; 29:1282-1288. [PMID: 29973129 DOI: 10.1177/0956462418775524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Previous research has given considerable attention to venues where men who have sex with men (MSM) meet their sex partners. However, no previous study examined a vast range of sexual risk behaviors. The objective of this study was to examine the association between the types of venues for meeting sexual partners, condomless anal intercourse, engagement in group sex, and HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) risk among a sample of MSM. Users of a popular geosocial-networking app in Paris were provided an advertisement with text encouraging them to complete an anonymous web-based survey ( n = 580), which included questions about sex-seeking venues, condomless anal intercourse, HIV status and STI history, and sociodemographic characteristics. A log-binomial model was used to assess association between venues (i.e. public venues [gay clubs, bars, and discos], cruising venues [such as gay saunas, beaches, and parks], and internet-based venues [internet chat sites and geosocial-networking apps]), condomless anal intercourse, engagement in group sex, and HIV infection as well as infection with other STIs, after adjustment for sociodemographics. In multivariable models, attending cruising venues was associated with condomless receptive anal intercourse (adjusted relative risk [aRR] = 1.47; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.20-1.81), any kind of condomless anal intercourse (aRR = 1.34; 95% CI = 1.14-1.58), an STI (aRR = 1.50; 95% CI = 1.09-2.05), engagement in group sex (aRR = 1.42; 95% CI = 1.27-1.59), and multiple partners for both condomless insertive (aRR = 2.00; 95% CI = 1.38-2.88), and receptive (aRR = 1.70; 95% CI = 1.23-2.36) anal intercourse, STI infection (aRR = 1.50, 95% CI = 1.09-2.05) and HIV infection (aRR = 1.76; 95% CI = 1.05-2.96). No associations were found with other venue types and sexual risk behaviors, STIs, and HIV infection, except for group sex, which was associated with all venue types. Use of cruising where the primary aim is to have sex was found to be associated with risky sexual behavior. Risky behavior reduction strategies such as preexposure prophylaxis campaigns should be targeted to MSM who frequent cruising venues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazan A Al-Ajlouni
- 1 Spatial Epidemiology Lab, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Su H Park
- 1 Spatial Epidemiology Lab, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - John A Schneider
- 2 Departments of Medicine and Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,3 Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - William C Goedel
- 1 Spatial Epidemiology Lab, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - H Rhodes Hambrick
- 1 Spatial Epidemiology Lab, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Michael N Cantor
- 1 Spatial Epidemiology Lab, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dustin T Duncan
- 1 Spatial Epidemiology Lab, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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31
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Serovich JM, Laschober TC, Brown MJ, Kimberly JA. Assessment of HIV disclosure and sexual behavior among Black men who have sex with men following a randomized controlled intervention. Int J STD AIDS 2018; 29:673-679. [PMID: 29361887 DOI: 10.1177/0956462417751812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Disclosure is important in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission risk reduction. This randomized controlled intervention assessed changes in and predictors of disclosure and risky sexual behavior among Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) living with HIV in the U.S. BMSM were randomly assigned to either the disclosure intervention or attention control case management group. Predictors of three disclosure types (behavior, beliefs, intentions) and condomless anal intercourse (CAI) included disclosure consequences (rewards and costs), disclosure readiness, and safer sex readiness. Mixed-effect results showed no differences between the groups in any of the outcomes; although disclosure behavior increased over time. Relationships were found between readiness to change and CAI; disclosure consequences and different disclosure types; and disclosure behavior and receptive CAI. When working with BMSM living with HIV, practitioners and prevention specialists should consider the importance of disclosure pertaining to receptive CAI and factors that support overall disclosure and safer sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julianne M Serovich
- College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Tanja C Laschober
- College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Monique J Brown
- College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Judy A Kimberly
- College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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Hotton AL, Keene L, Corbin DE, Schneider J, Voisin DR. The relationship between Black and gay community involvement and HIV-related risk behaviors among Black men who have sex with men. JOURNAL OF GAY & LESBIAN SOCIAL SERVICES 2017; 30:64-81. [PMID: 30872907 PMCID: PMC6413304 DOI: 10.1080/10538720.2017.1408518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Blackgay men must navigate identities and stigmas related to being gay and Black, and report higher HIV incidence relative to their white male counterparts although they report lower rates of drug use and risky sexual behaviors. This study examined whether closeness to the gay or Black community correlated with HIV related risk and protective behaviors. Data were drawn from uConnect, a population-based cohort study of YBMSM on Chicago's South Side. The sample consists of 618 Black MSM ranging in age from 16-29. Cross sectional measures for this study include Black and gay community closeness, drug use, sexual risk behaviors, HIV testing and health promotion behaviors. Closeness with the gay community was associated with greater PrEP knowledge as well as participating in health promotion programs along with higher rates of transactional sex and having sex under the influence of substances, and increased odds of self-reported HIV seropositivity. Involvement in the Black community was associated with lower odds of reporting being HIV positive. Findings suggest that programs and initiatives are needed to help promote the positive aspects of the Black and gay communities, while minimizing the negative correlates of such involvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L. Hotton
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois at
Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lance Keene
- School of Social Service Administration, University of
Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dennis E. Corbin
- School of Social Work, Fayetteville State University,
Fayetteville, NC, USA
| | - John Schneider
- Departments of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of
Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- STI/HIV Intervention Network at the University of
Chicago
- Third Coast Center for AIDS Research, Chicago, IL,
USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago,
Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dexter R. Voisin
- School of Social Service Administration, University of
Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- STI/HIV Intervention Network at the University of
Chicago
- Third Coast Center for AIDS Research, Chicago, IL,
USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago,
Chicago, IL, USA
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Online Sex Partner Meeting Venues as a Risk Factor for Testing HIV Positive Among a Community-Based Sample of Black Men Who Have Sex With Men. Sex Transm Dis 2017; 43:360-4. [PMID: 27200520 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000000454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In the United States, black men who have sex with men (BMSM) are disproportionately affected by the HIV epidemic. The elevated estimates of HIV among BMSM suggest that to slow rates of HIV infections, a range of factors that may contribute to transmission must be researched. Use of online venues for seeking out sex partners is one such area that may further advance our understanding of risks for HIV among BMSM. METHODS Black men who have sex with men residing in Atlanta, GA, reporting HIV-negative/unknown status completed survey assessments and HIV antibody testing. Logistic regression using generalized linear modeling was used to conduct both bivariate and multivariable analyses of psychosocial variables-that is, substance use, sexually transmitted infection symptoms/diagnoses, sexual risk behavior, online sex partner meeting, and HIV test results. RESULTS Two hundred thirty-two BMSM tested HIV negative and 39 BMSM tested HIV positive (14% new diagnoses). Reporting symptoms of a rectal sexually transmitted infection (odds ratio, 4.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-15.41) and use of sexual networking apps (odds ratio, 2.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-4.36) were both associated with testing HIV positive in a multivariable analysis. CONCLUSIONS The use of sexual networking apps is associated with risks for HIV infection above and beyond what is captured by sexual risk behavior alone. Evaluating how sexual networking apps affect sexual networks and social norms regarding sexual risk taking and HIV transmission is an important and novel area for HIV prevention and intervention development.
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Vincent W, Pollack LM, Huebner DM, Peterson JL, Steward WT, Rebchook GM, Storholm ED, Kegeles SM. HIV risk and multiple sources of heterosexism among young Black men who have sex with men. J Consult Clin Psychol 2017; 85:1122-1130. [PMID: 28714706 PMCID: PMC6713283 DOI: 10.1037/ccp0000235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined whether the association between social support and condom self-efficacy would be moderated by (a) internalized heterosexism among and (b) enacted heterosexism experienced by young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM), who contend with high HIV incidence, heterosexism, and low uptake of preexposure prophylaxis. METHOD Participants were 1,210 YBMSM (ages 18-29) who completed measures of social support, internalized and enacted heterosexism, and condom self-efficacy in 2 large cities in the southern United States as part of a community-level HIV-prevention study. RESULTS A significant 3-way interaction between social support and both hypothesized moderators, internalized and enacted heterosexism, showed that social support was positively associated with condom self-efficacy when both internalized and enacted heterosexism were high (1 SD above the mean; b = .177, 95% confidence interval [CI: .088, .266]). However, social support was not associated with condom self-efficacy when scores were low (1 SD below the mean) on both internalized and enacted heterosexism (b = .024, 95% CI [-.054, .101]), low on internalized and high on enacted heterosexism (b = .058, 95% CI [-.061, .117]), or high on internalized and low on enacted heterosexism (b = .039, 95% CI [-.083, .161]). CONCLUSIONS YBMSM who are high in both internalized and enacted heterosexism may see greater benefits from social support on condom self-efficacy than would YBMSM who grapple with less heterosexism. In addition to promoting social support, interventions should aim to assess and reduce multiple forms of stigma. (PsycINFO Database Record
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilson Vincent
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Lance M Pollack
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco
| | - David M Huebner
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, George Washington University
| | | | - Wayne T Steward
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Gregory M Rebchook
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco
| | | | - Susan M Kegeles
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco
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Duncan DT, Park SH, Schneider JA, Al-Ajlouni YA, Goedel WC, Elbel B, Morganstein JG, Ransome Y, Mayer KH. Financial Hardship, Condomless Anal Intercourse and HIV Risk Among Men Who Have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:3478-3485. [PMID: 29101606 PMCID: PMC5988347 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1930-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to examine the association between financial hardship, condomless anal intercourse and HIV risk among a sample of men who have sex with men (MSM). Users of a popular geosocial networking application in Paris were shown an advertisement with text encouraging them to complete a anonymous web-based survey (n = 580). In adjusted multivariate models, high financial hardship (compared to low financial hardship) was associated with engagement in condomless anal intercourse (aRR 1.28; 95% CI 1.08-1.52), engagement in condomless receptive anal intercourse (aRR 1.34; 95% CI 1.07-1.67), engagement in condomless insertive anal intercourse (aRR 1.30; 95% CI 1.01-1.67), engagement in transactional sex (aRR 2.36; 95% CI 1.47-3.79) and infection with non-HIV STIs (aRR 1.50; 95% CI 1.07-2.10). This study suggests that interventions to reduce financial hardships (e.g., income-based strategies to ensure meeting of basic necessities) could decrease sexual risk behaviors in MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin T Duncan
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Spatial Epidemiology Lab, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, 227 East 30th Street, 6th Floor, Room 621, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
| | - Su Hyun Park
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - John A Schneider
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Yazan A Al-Ajlouni
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - William C Goedel
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brian Elbel
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- New York University Wagner School of Public Service, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jace G Morganstein
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yusuf Ransome
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- Fenway Health, The Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Young LE, Schumm P, Alon L, Bouris A, Ferreira M, Hill B, Khanna AS, Valente TW, Schneider JA. PrEP Chicago: A randomized controlled peer change agent intervention to promote the adoption of pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention among young Black men who have sex with men. Clin Trials 2017; 15:44-52. [PMID: 28862483 DOI: 10.1177/1740774517730012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Advances in biomedical prevention strategies such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) represent a new opportunity for reducing HIV incidence among young Black men who have sex with men, for whom the number of new HIV infections continues to rise. However, studies have documented low rates of PrEP uptake in this community. Research suggests that the peer networks of young Black men who have sex with men play important roles in their sexual health decisions. PrEP Chicago is a randomized controlled trial network intervention designed to increase PrEP uptake among young Black men who have sex with men living in Chicago. The aims of this study are twofold. Aim 1 is to estimate the effectiveness of a peer change agent intervention for (1) increasing the number of referrals made to a PrEP information line, (2) increasing the rate of PrEP adoption among non-participant peers, and (3) increasing PrEP knowledge, attitudes, and intentions among participants. Aim 2 is to determine the individual and network variables that explain peer change agent effectiveness. METHODS PrEP Chicago is a social network intervention that utilizes the influence of peer change agents to link young Black men who have sex with men in Chicago to PrEP. Young Black men who have sex with men were recruited using respondent-driven sampling. Once screened for eligibility, participants were randomly assigned to either one of two treatment sequences: (1) intervention treatment in Year 1 followed by a minimal contact attention control in Year 2 or (2) the minimal contact attention control in Year 1 followed by treatment in Year 2. The treatment consists of a PrEP/peer change agent training workshop followed by booster calls for 12 months. The attention control consists of a sex diary activity designed to help participants assess sexual risk. Psychosocial, sexual health, and network data are collected from all participants at baseline and at 12- and 24-month follow-ups. RESULTS In total, 423 participants aged 18-35 have been enrolled (more than 100% target enrollment) and have completed baseline data collection. A majority of participants in both intervention and control groups reported having heard of PrEP before enrolling in the study, yet also reported having had no current or prior experience taking PrEP. Statistical analyses await completion of Year 1 of the trial in March 2018. CONCLUSION PrEP Chicago addresses a gap in HIV prevention research and intervention design by utilizing the existing social networks among young Black men who have sex with men as mechanisms for information diffusion, behavioral influence, social support, and empowerment. Therefore, interventions that leverage peer influence processes to facilitate PrEP uptake are promising strategies to improve sexual health engagement and overcome disparities in outcomes among this at-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay E Young
- 1 The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,2 Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Phil Schumm
- 3 Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Leigh Alon
- 1 The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,2 Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alida Bouris
- 2 Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA.,4 School of Social Service Administration, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Matthew Ferreira
- 1 The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,2 Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Brandon Hill
- 1 The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,5 Center for Interdisciplinary Inquiry and Innovation in Sexual and Reproductive Health, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Aditya S Khanna
- 1 The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,2 Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Thomas W Valente
- 6 Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - John A Schneider
- 1 The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,2 Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA.,3 Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Chamberlain N, Mena LA, Geter A, Crosby RA. Is Sex with Older Male Partners Associated with Higher Sexual Risk Behavior Among Young Black MSM? AIDS Behav 2017; 21:2526-2532. [PMID: 28144793 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1699-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Participants at a sexual health clinic completed a survey with questions regarding sexual risk behavior and partner characteristics. Of 585 participants eligible for analysis, 124 reported generally having older male partners. These participants were significantly more likely to be HIV-infected (p < 0.001), have four or more sex partners as a "bottom" (p = 0.04), have concurrent partners (p = 0.01), and have partners suspected of having an sexually transmitted infection (p = 0.05) than participants without older partners. With analysis restricted to HIV- individuals, risk behaviors did not differ significantly between the groups. HIV- individuals with older partners may be at increased risk of HIV infection due to increased HIV prevalence among older sexual partners and not due to increased risk behaviors with these partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Chamberlain
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39213, USA.
| | - Leandro A Mena
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39213, USA
| | - Angelica Geter
- The Satcher Health Leadership Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Richard A Crosby
- College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Carrico AW, Storholm ED, Flentje A, Arnold EA, Pollack LM, Neilands TB, Rebchook GM, Peterson JL, Eke A, Johnson W, Kegeles SM. Spirituality/religiosity, substance use, and HIV testing among young black men who have sex with men. Drug Alcohol Depend 2017; 174:106-112. [PMID: 28319751 PMCID: PMC5482005 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spirituality and religiosity may serve as both a resource and a barrier to HIV prevention with young black men who have sex with men (YBMSM). We examined indices of spirituality/religiosity as correlates of binge drinking, stimulant use, and recent HIV testing in a sample of YBMSM. METHODS From 2011-2013, annual venue-based surveys of sexually active YBMSM ages 18-29 were conducted in Dallas and Houston, Texas. Binge drinking and stimulant use were assessed in the past two months. Participants recently tested for HIV (i.e., within the past six months) were compared to those without recent HIV testing (i.e., never tested or tested more than six months ago). RESULTS Among the 1565 HIV-negative or HIV-unknown YBMSM enrolled, more engagement in spiritual and religious activities was associated with greater odds of reporting stimulant use (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]=1.20; 95% CI=1.04-1.40) while higher spiritual coping was associated with lower odds of reporting stimulant use (AOR=0.66; 95% CI=0.56-0.78). Binge drinking was independently associated with 29% lower odds of recent HIV testing (AOR=0.71; 95% CI=0.55-0.92), but lower odds of binge drinking did not mediate the association of engagement in spiritual and religious activities with 27% greater odds of recent HIV testing (AOR=1.27; 95% CI=1.11-1.46). CONCLUSIONS Among YBMSM, culturally tailored approaches addressing spirituality/religiosity could support prevention of stimulant use and increase HIV testing. In particular, expanded efforts are needed to promote HIV testing in binge drinkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam W. Carrico
- University of Miami, School of Medicine, Department of Public Health Sciences
| | | | - Annesa Flentje
- University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing, Department of Community Health Systems
| | - Emily A. Arnold
- University of California, San Francisco, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies
| | - Lance M. Pollack
- University of California, San Francisco, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies
| | | | | | | | - Agatha Eke
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | | | - Susan M. Kegeles
- University of California, San Francisco, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies
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Nelson KM, Eaton LA, Gamarel KE. Preferences for Condomless Sex in Sexually Explicit Media Among Black/African American Men Who Have Sex with Men: Implications for HIV Prevention. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2017; 46:977-985. [PMID: 27987085 PMCID: PMC5438767 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-016-0878-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Revised: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/05/2016] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that viewing sexually explicit media (SEM; i.e., pornography) may be related to the sexual behaviors of men who have sex with men (MSM). Furthermore, stereotypical depictions of Black/African American MSM engaging in sexual risk behaviors in SEM may serve to normalize condomless sex, reinforce low peer norms around condom use, and facilitate HIV risk taking among Black/African American MSM. Despite this evidence, very little is known about the correlates of SEM consumption among Black/African American MSM, including HIV risk behaviors and their relation to preferences for viewing condomless sex in SEM. Participants were 653 HIV-seronegative Black-identified MSM ages 18-62 (M 33.58, SD 11.01) who completed a cross-sectional survey as a part of a HIV prevention trial in Atlanta, Georgia. Over three-quarters of the men (n = 514) reported a preference for condomless sex in SEM. In multivariate models, engaging in serodiscordant condomless sex was not significantly associated with preferences for condomless sex in SEM; however, men who self-identified as bisexual, engaged in transactional sex, and reported greater agreement with sexual risk cognitions (i.e., heat-of-the-moment thoughts about condom use) had significantly greater odds of reporting a preference for condomless sex in SEM. Study findings highlight the need for future research exploring the role of SEM in the sexual health of Black/African American MSM, including the extent to which SEM exposure alters norms and expectations about sexual behaviors among Black/African American MSM and how this might be addressed in HIV prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly M Nelson
- Centers for Behavioral and Preventative Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Coro West, Suite 309, 164 Summit Ave., Providence, RI, 02906, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
| | - Lisa A Eaton
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Kristi E Gamarel
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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40
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Voisin DR, Hotton AL, Schneider JA. The relationship between life stressors and drug and sexual behaviors among a population-based sample of young Black men who have sex with men in Chicago. AIDS Care 2017; 29:545-551. [PMID: 27590043 PMCID: PMC5577924 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2016.1224303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Younger Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) have the highest rates of HIV incidence in the U.S. and are also exposed to high life stressors (e.g., unemployment, incarceration, and exposure to communality). This study assessed whether life stressors were related to drug use and sexual risk behaviors among a representative sample of YBMSM. The South Side of Chicago and selected adjacent suburbs represents the most populous contiguous Black community in the U.S. Over 10% of the estimated YBMSM population in this geographic region were sampled. Major findings indicated that higher life stress was significantly associated with greater odds of transactional sex (aOR = 2.19; 95% CI 1.09-4.39), substance use with sex with male and transgender partners (aOR = 1.62; 95% CI 1.09-2.39), marijuana (aOR = 2.65; 95% CI 1.43-4.90), crack/cocaine (aOR = 3.21; 95% CI 1.16-8.88), and prescription opioid use (aOR = 3.12; 95% CI 1.37-7.13). HIV approaches which focus on environmental stressors and employ a stress and coping framework may support the reduction of drug and sexual risk behaviors among YBMSM. Cognitive and social support approaches might be especially useful in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dexter R Voisin
- a School of Social Service Administration , University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Anna L Hotton
- b School of Public Health , University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - John A Schneider
- b School of Public Health , University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
- c Department of Public Health Sciences , University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
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Holloway IW, Winder TJ, Lea CH, Tan D, Boyd D, Novak D. Technology Use and Preferences for Mobile Phone-Based HIV Prevention and Treatment Among Black Young Men Who Have Sex With Men: Exploratory Research. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2017; 5:e46. [PMID: 28408360 PMCID: PMC5408136 DOI: 10.2196/mhealth.6436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 01/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Black young men who have sex with men (BYMSM) experience higher human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) incidence than their white and Latino counterparts. Objective The aim of our study was to understand BYMSM’s preferences for mobile phone–based HIV prevention and treatment in order to inform culturally tailored interventions to reduce the spread of HIV and improve HIV treatment outcomes in this population. Methods Qualitative focus groups (N=6) with BYMSM aged 18-29 years (N=41; 46%, 19/41 HIV-positive) were conducted to elucidate their preferences for the design and delivery of mobile phone–based HIV prevention and treatment interventions. A modified grounded theory approach to data analysis was undertaken using ATLAS.ti textual analysis software. Results Participants preferred holistic health interventions that did not focus exclusively on HIV prevention and treatment. Issues of privacy and confidentiality were paramount. Participants preferred functionality that enables discreet connections to culturally competent health educators and treatment providers who can address the range of health and psychosocial concerns faced by BYMSM. Conclusions Mobile phone–based HIV prevention has the potential to increase engagement with HIV prevention and treatment resources among BYMSM. For these approaches to be successful, researchers must include BYMSM in the design and creation of these interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian W Holloway
- Department of Social Welfare, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Terrell Ja Winder
- Department of Sociology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | | | - Diane Tan
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Donte Boyd
- Department of Social Welfare, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - David Novak
- OLB Research Institute, Online Buddies, Inc., Cambridge, MA, United States
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Schneider JA, Kozloski M, Michaels S, Skaathun B, Voisin D, Lancki N, Morgan E, Khanna A, Green K, Coombs RW, Friedman SR, Laumann E, Schumm P. Criminal justice involvement history is associated with better HIV care continuum metrics among a population-based sample of young black MSM. AIDS 2017; 31:159-165. [PMID: 27662544 PMCID: PMC5127721 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000001269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine how history of criminal justice involvement (CJI) is related to HIV care continuum metrics among young black MSM 16-29 years of age. DESIGN Population-based survey. METHODS From 2013 to 2014, a representative sample of young black MSM was generated using respondent-driven sampling (RDS) in Chicago (n = 618). HIV antibody/antigen and RNA testing were performed using dry blood spots. Factors assessed in the care continuum included HIV testing, HIV diagnosis, linkage to care within 6 months, retention in care, adherence to antiretrovirals, and viral suppression. RDS-weighted regression models examined the associations between history of CJI, including frequency of CJI and durations of stay and each of the continuum metrics. RESULTS A final analytic sample of 618 participants was generated through RDS chains of up to 13 waves in length and with a mean of 2.1 recruits per participant. At enrollment, 40.8% had prior history of CJI and 34.6% were HIV seropositive. Of persons reporting HIV seropositive status, 58.4% were linked to care, 40.2% were retained in care, 32.2% were adherent to antiretrovirals, and 24.3% were virally suppressed. Any CJI history was associated with the overall care continuum (adjusted odds ratio = 2.35; 95% confidence interval 1.13-4.88) and was most associated with increased retention in care [adjusted odds ratio = 3.72 (1.77-7.84)]. Having one CJI experience and detention for only 1 day was associated with better retention in care compared with no or more frequent CJI. CONCLUSION Those with a previous history of CJI were more successful in achieving most HIV care continuum metrics. Frequent and cycling CJI, however, was detrimental to HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Schneider
- aDepartment of Public Health Sciences bDepartment of Medicine cNORC at the University of Chicago, University of Chicago dChicago Center for HIV Elimination eSchool of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois fDepartment of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington gNational Development and Research Institutes, New York, New York hDepartment of Sociology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Basu A, Dillon PJ, Romero-Daza N. Understanding Culture and Its Influence on HIV/AIDS-Related Communication Among Minority Men Who Have Sex With Men. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2016; 31:1367-1374. [PMID: 27007012 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2015.1072884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Scholarly research and government surveillance reports demonstrate that African American and Latino men who have sex with men (MSM) bear an inequitable burden of new HIV infections. Among the estimated 31,896 HIV infections attributed to male-to-male sexual contact in 2011, approximately 62% occurred in African American (38.2%) and Latino (23.5) MSM. Simultaneously, recent scholarship on minority MSM and HIV/AIDS reports a dearth of qualitative communication research that address this health issue. This manuscript reports a research study that seeks to fill this gap in health communication theory and praxis. Through in-depth interviews with 17 MSM of color, this article draws upon the culture-centered approach to demonstrate how cultural and contextual nuances, (in)access to structural resources, and participants' agentive capacity to act upon available knowledge/resources influences the ways they manage (the threat of) HIV/AIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambar Basu
- a Department of Communication , University of South Florida
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44
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A mixed methods study of health and social disparities among substance-using African American/Black men who have sex with men. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2016; 2:1-10. [PMID: 25960944 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-014-0042-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
African American/Black men who have sex with men (MSM) in the U.S. experience health and social disparities at greater rates than MSM of other races/ethnicities, including HIV infection and substance use. This mixed methods paper presents: 1) a quantitative examination of health and social disparities among a sample of substance-using African American/Black MSM (N=108), compared to Caucasian/White MSM (N=250), and 2) in-depth qualitative data from a subsample of African American/Black MSM (N=21) in order to contextualize the quantitative data. Findings indicate that compared to Caucasian/White MSM, African American/Black MSM experienced a wide range of health and social disparities including: substance use and dependence; buying, trading or selling sex; educational attainment; employment; homelessness; identifying as gay; HIV status; arrest history; social support; and satisfaction with one's living situation. Qualitative data suggests that structural interventions that address homophobia and the social environment would be likely to mitigate many of the health and social disparities experienced by African American/Black MSM.
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45
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Wilson BD, Miyashita A. Sexual and Gender Diversity within the Black Men who have Sex with Men HIV Epidemiological Category. SEXUALITY RESEARCH & SOCIAL POLICY : JOURNAL OF NSRC : SR & SP 2016; 13:202-214. [PMID: 27525047 PMCID: PMC4980082 DOI: 10.1007/s13178-016-0219-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological categories not only reflect existing frameworks for public health, but reify how subpopulations are defined, understood, and targeted for interventions. The sweeping categorization of Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) used in HIV research and intervention work is one such example. The current paper builds upon previous critiques of the "MSM" nomenclature by delineating the sexual and gender diversity embedded in the term as it pertains specifically to Black peoples. The emphasis is on developing greater specificity about the sociocultural and structural factors that may be shared among these subgroups, such as racism and poverty, and the factors that are likely to distinguish the groups, such as levels of sexual minority identification, access to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) services and community, and experiences with anti-bisexual or anti-transgender bias. The aim then is to provide a framework for HIV health policy work for Black sexual minority cisgender men (SMCM) and gender minorities (GM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca D.M. Wilson
- University of California, Los Angeles, School of Law, Williams Institute, Box 951476, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1476, United States of America
| | - Ayako Miyashita
- University of California, Los Angeles, School of Law, Williams Institute, Box 951476, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1476, United States of America
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46
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Smallwood SW, Spencer SM, Ingram LA, Thrasher JF, Thompson-Robinson MV. Examining the Relationships Between Religiosity, Spirituality, Internalized Homonegativity, and Condom Use Among African American Men Who Have Sex With Men in the Deep South. Am J Mens Health 2016; 11:196-207. [PMID: 26400713 DOI: 10.1177/1557988315590835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sexual Health in Faith Traditions Study evaluated the relationships between religiosity, spirituality, internalized homonegativity, and sexual risk behaviors among a sample of African American men who have sex with men living in the Deep South. Participants were recruited primarily from Black Gay Pride celebrations to complete a self-administered, paper-and-pencil survey. Structural equation modeling was used to determine relationships between key constructs and condom use for insertive ( n = 285) and receptive ( n = 263) anal intercourse in the past 3 months. Almost half of respondents reported using condoms "every time" when engaging in insertive (48.3%) or receptive (45.1%) anal intercourse. Religiosity and spirituality were differentially associated with dimensions of internalized homonegativity. While no significant direct relationships were reported between either religiosity or spirituality and condom use, dimensions of internalized homonegativity mediated significant indirect relationships. Findings suggest that religiosity and spirituality influence African American men who have sex with men's internalized homonegativity and, subsequently, engagement in safer sex behaviors.
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47
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Wilson PA, Valera P, Martos AJ, Wittlin NM, Muñoz-Laboy MA, Parker RG. Contributions of Qualitative Research in Informing HIV/AIDS Interventions Targeting Black MSM in the United States. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2016; 53:642-54. [PMID: 26241373 PMCID: PMC4740277 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2015.1016139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
This article presents a systematic review of qualitative studies focusing on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) among Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) in the United States. We reviewed studies that were published between 1980 and 2014. Qualitative methods employed in the studies reviewed include in-depth interviews, focus groups, participant observation, and ethnography. We searched several databases (PubMed, PsychINFO, JSTOR, ERIC, Sociological Abstracts, and Google Scholar) for relevant articles using the following broad terms: "Black men" "Black gay/bisexual" or "Black men who have sex with men," and "qualitative" and/or "ethnography." We include 70 studies in this review. The key themes observed across studies were (1) heterogeneity, (2) layered stigma and intersectionality, (3) risk behaviors, (4) mental health, (5) resilience, and (6) community engagement. The review suggests that sexual behavior and HIV-status disclosure, sexual risk taking, substance use, and psychological well-being were contextually situated. Interventions occurring at multiple levels and within multiple contexts are needed to reduce stigma within the Black community. Similarly, structural interventions targeting religious groups, schools, and health care systems are needed to improve the health outcomes among BMSM. Community engagement and using community-based participatory research methods may facilitate the development and implementation of culturally appropriate HIV/AIDS interventions targeting BMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick A. Wilson
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY U.S.A
| | - Pamela Valera
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY U.S.A
| | - Alexander J. Martos
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY U.S.A
| | - Natalie M. Wittlin
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY U.S.A
| | - Miguel A. Muñoz-Laboy
- College of Health Professions and Social Work, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, U.S.A
| | - Richard G. Parker
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY U.S.A
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Henry Akintobi T, Trotter J, Zellner T, Lenoir S, Evans D, Rollins L, Miller A. Outcomes of a Behavioral Intervention to Increase Condom Use and Reduce HIV Risk Among Urban African American Young Adults. Health Promot Pract 2016; 17:751-9. [PMID: 27216874 DOI: 10.1177/1524839916649367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
African Americans comprise nearly half of people in the United States living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) but compose one tenth of the population. Infection rate among young African American adults is 11 times that of Whites. The Color It Real Program was a seven-session, weekly administered, age-specific, and culturally tailored intervention designed to provide HIV education and address behavioral motivations (risk awareness, decisional balance exercises, partner negotiation, and attitudes) associated with HIV risk among African Americans ages 18 to 24 years in Atlanta, Georgia. Effectiveness was assessed through a quasi-experimental study design that consisted of intervention (n = 88) and control (n = 52) groups completing a 45-item survey. When controlling for gender and education, repeated measures analysis of variance revealed that the intervention group had significant increases in HIV transmission knowledge (F = 4.84, p = .0305), condom use, and intentions to use condoms (F = 4.38, p = .0385). Risky sexual behavior means did not significantly differ between groups (F = 1.44, p = .2331). Results indicate the value of culturally tailored educational strategies toward improved HIV knowledge and adoption of risk reduction strategies. Future studies investigating the differential impact of programs by gender and sexual orientation are also critical. Continued innovation and tailoring of risk reduction strategies for minority young adults will contribute to reducing HIV incidence and prevalence over the life course.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Shelia Lenoir
- Wholistic Stress Control Institute, Atlanta, GA, USA
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49
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Forenza B, Benoit E. Exploring Service Provider Perceptions of Treatment Barriers Facing Black, Non-Gay-Identified MSMW. JOURNAL OF ETHNIC & CULTURAL DIVERSITY IN SOCIAL WORK 2016; 25:114-129. [PMID: 27713669 PMCID: PMC5047389 DOI: 10.1080/15313204.2015.1071300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Non-gay-identified men who have sex with men and women and who use alcohol and other drugs are a vulnerable population. Little is known about health and medical service provider interaction with these underserved clients. This article presents a thematic analysis of two focus groups undertaken with social and medical service providers regarding the needs of non-gay-identified men who have sex with men and women. Four emergent themes (labeling, constructions of masculinity, HIV/AIDS awareness, and treatment success) illustrate perceived barriers to HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, as well as treatment success. Implications for policy, practice, and future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brad Forenza
- Montclair State University, Center for Child Advocacy and Policy, Montclair, NJ, USA
| | - Ellen Benoit
- National Development and Research Institutes, Inc., New York, New York, USA
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50
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Bird JDP, LaSala MC, Hidalgo MA, Kuhns LM, Garofalo R. "I Had to Go to the Streets to Get Love": Pathways From Parental Rejection to HIV Risk Among Young Gay and Bisexual Men. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2016; 64:321-342. [PMID: 27092441 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2016.1179039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Young, gay, and bisexual men (YGBM) are at increased risk of family rejection, which is related to HIV infection. What remains unknown is how family rejection leads to HIV risk. In this exploratory study, qualitative interviews were conducted with 21 HIV-positive YGBM aged 18 to 24. Most participants reported family rejection, which decreased instrumental and emotional support and resulted in participants using riskier ways to support themselves, such as engaging in survival sex. Conceptualizing the findings using a family systems framework, we present a tentative conceptual model to describe the potential relationships between family rejection and HIV risk for YGBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason D P Bird
- a Department of Social Work , Rutgers University-Newark , Newark , New Jersey , USA
| | - Michael C LaSala
- b School of Social Work , Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey , New Brunswick , New Jersey , USA
| | - Marco A Hidalgo
- c Center for Gender, Sexuality, and HIV Prevention, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and Pediatrics , Northwestern University , Chicago , Illinois , USA
| | - Lisa M Kuhns
- c Center for Gender, Sexuality, and HIV Prevention, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and Pediatrics , Northwestern University , Chicago , Illinois , USA
| | - Robert Garofalo
- d Center for Gender, Sexuality, and HIV Prevention, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, and Pediatrics and Preventive Medicine; and Feinberg School of Medicine Pediatrics Northwestern University , Chicago , Illinois , USA
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