The experience of men who have sex with men in responding to and coping with HIV in the first year following a diagnosis: a systematic review of qualitative evidence.

Abstract

Review Objective/Questions: The objective of this systematic review is to identify and synthesise the best available qualitative evidence on how men who have sex with men respond to and cope with HIV in the first year following diagnosis. The specific questions to be addressed are: How do men who have sex with men respond to HIV in the first year following diagnosis? How do men who have sex with men cope with HIV in the first year following diagnosis? Inclusion Criteria: Population This review will consider studies that include a focus on men who have sex with men who have been diagnosed with HIV. ‘Men who have sex with men’ is a behavioural definition to include those men who do not identify as homosexual or bisexual but who have sexual encounters with men. Any studies referring to gay, homosexual or bisexual men specifically will be included, as well as those that refer to men who have sex with men in general. Phenomena of interest This review will consider studies that include a focus on the experience of men who have sex with men in responding to and coping with HIV in the first year following a diagnosis. Studies exploring the experience of men who have sex with men with HIV after their first year following diagnosis will not be considered.