P064 Delivery of sexual health interventions for men who have sex with men (HPV vaccination and PrEP) may be hindered by the lack of sexuality disclosure in primary care

Abstract

Background/introduction Large scale new sexual heath interventions for MSM (HPV vaccination, PrEP) will potentially need to be delivered in primary care as well as sexual health. It is important these services are acceptable to MSM and MSM feel confident to disclose their sexuality. Methods From November 2015 to February 2016, a paper survey was distributed to MSM attending local sexual health services on acceptability of local services and initial disclosure of sexuality to a healthcare setting. National Student Pride also used an online version of the survey. Results 1186 MSM were included in the analysis of this survey. The median age was 26.8 years (18–89). 1026/1186 (86.5%) self-identified as gay, 108/1186 (9.1%) bisexual and 34/1186 (2.9%) straight. 918/1186 (77.4%) were HIV-negative, 42/1186 (3.5%) HIV-positive, 188/1186 (15.9%) never tested, and 38/1186 (3.2%) unknown status. The median age of first sexual behaviour with another man was 17.6 years (6–41). The median age of disclosure of sexuality to: family is 18 years (8–45) and friends 17 years (11–41); sexual health services 892/1186 (66.6%) = 19.0 years (14–54); and to primary care 522/1186 (44%) = 21.2years (13–54). There is a difference between age of first sexual experience and disclosure to primary care of 3.6 years. Discussion/conclusion Delayed disclosure to healthcare professionals of sexuality by MSM is likely to impede the uptake of important health interventions in MSM.