Perspectives on Pain, Engagement in HIV Care, and Behavioral Interventions for Chronic Pain Among Older Sexual Minority Men Living with HIV and Chronic Pain: A Qualitative Analysis.

Abstract

The transition of HIV from an acute, fatal illness to a chronic health condition has shifted the treatment needs of people living with HIV (PLWH). PLWH, including sexual minority men (SMM), are living longer and are subject to health concerns often associated with aging. A major health concern of older SMM living with HIV who report problematic substance use is chronic pain. This qualitative analysis of 15 one-on-one interviews with older SMM living with HIV and chronic pain aimed to characterize this population's experiences with pain, engagement in HIV care, and problematic substance use. This study was conducted in a community health center in Boston, MA. We also solicited suggestions for preferred intervention strategies. Three main themes emerged from the interview transcripts: 1) the impact of chronic pain and pain treatment on engagement in HIV clinical care; 2) the impact of substance use on chronic pain; and 3) response to interventions to address chronic pain and substance use. These findings underscore the need for interventions that address the structural, physical, and psychological barriers to engagement in medical and self-care that affect older SMM living with HIV and chronic pain.