A qualitative study on HIV related risk behaviors, current status and need for prevention services among 28 money boys

Abstract

Objective: To understand the characteristics of HIV-related risk behaviors and needs for prevention services among males who sell sex for money or anything of value (commonly known as money boys or MB), and to provide evidence for the development of targeted interventions. Methods: Using non-probability purposive sampling method and one-on-one interviews. Results: A total of 28 MBs were interviewed, with age range between 20 and 67, and education primarily at junior high school level. Among them 6 were married. Their household registration for residency cut across 15 provinces, and their sexual orientation is diverse. They migrate primarily among tier one cities and provincial capitals. Most enter the trade for economic reasons, relying on clubs and personal networks to find clients, and on word of mouth to obtain knowledge and skills. In addition to their primary clientele of the male homosexual community, 5 out of 28 serve male heterosexuals and 6 out of 28 also serve females. They have some awareness of self protection from diseases, primarily from word of mouth. Nevertheless, over half of them cannot maintain consistent condom use, and 12 out of 28 have a history of illegal drug use. Three of them reported being tested positive for HIV, and all continue to engage in sex work. They prefer their communication messages to be simple and straight-forward. Privacy comes first when they are accessing testing and treatment services. Conclusion: The bridge role of the MB community in transmitting HIV to the general population cannot be ignored, and interventions targeting the MB population need to be strengthened.