Young MSM Research Articles

Relationships Between Health Beliefs, Fear of COVID-19, Knowledge of HIV Transmission, And HIV Preventive Behaviors Among Young Thai Men Who Have Sex with Men During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background: Young Thai men who have sex with men (MSM) are at high risk of HIV transmission, making effective prevention crucial. This study aimed to examine the relationships between health beliefs, fear of COVID-19, knowledge of HIV transmission, and HIV preventive behaviors among young Thai MSM during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: A cross-sectional online questionnaire study guided by the health belief model was conducted among young Thai MSM using snowball sampling. Data on HIV/AIDS health beliefs, knowledge of HIV prevention, fear of COVID-19, and HIV preventive behaviors were collected and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The study included 134 participants (59.7% gay, 40.3% transgender). Knowledge of HIV prevention, fear of COVID-19, and HIV preventive behaviors were at a moderate level. Perceived severity of HIV/AIDS, perceived benefits of HIV prevention, self-efficacy for HIV prevention, knowledge of HIV transmission, and fear of COVID-19 were significantly related to HIV preventive behaviors among young Thai MSM (p<.05). These five variables were predictors of HIV preventive behaviors (Adjusted R2 = 0.304, F=6.740, p<0.05). Conclusions: The findings highlight the need for intervention programs focused on improving health beliefs and promoting HIV preventive behaviors among young Thai MSM.

Role of sociodemographic characteristics on self-stigma among young MSM living with HIV in Yogyakarta, Indonesia: A cross-sectional study.

Our study aimed to determine the role of sociodemographic characteristics on self-stigma among young men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This cross-sectional observational study was conducted from August-November 2022. Participants were recruited from outpatient clinics at Dr. Sardjito, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The Indonesian version of the Berger HIV Stigma Scale measured self-stigma. The statistical analysis utilized a 95% confidence level and determined significance by p-values <0.05. 72 young MSM were enrolled and completed questionnaires assessing sociodemographic and self-stigma. The average self-stigma score was 98.97. Education level was significantly associated with severe self-stigma in the bivariate analysis (p < .05). In the multivariate analysis, those with higher levels of education were significantly more likely to experience severe self-stigma (r = 2.938, p < .05). Employment status, family support, and education level were significantly associated with increased concerns in the disclosure, negative self-image, and public attitudes subscales (all p < .05). The results demonstrate associations between sociodemographic and self-stigma levels among young MSM living with HIV in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Further research regarding the educational level, employment status, and family support that can influence the perception and quality of life of PLHIV may need to be carried out.

Integrated analysis of rectal mucosal microbiome and transcriptome reveals a distinct microenvironment among young MSM.

Cross-talk between the microbiome and gut mucosa-resident immune cells plays a pivotal role in modulating immune responses to pathogens, including responses to HIV infection. However, how these interactions may differ between young MSM (YMSM) disproportionately impacted by HIV, as compared to older adult MSM (AMSM), is not well understood. A broad analysis of associations between the microbiome and rectal transcriptome revealed 10 microbial families/genera correlated with immunologic gene pathways. Specifically, the rectal transcriptome of YMSM is characterized by upregulation of T cell activation/differentiation pathways and signaling from multiple cytokine families, compared to AMSM. The microbiome of YMSM is enriched with pathogenic genera including Peptostreptococcus, shown to be positively correlated with type I interferon pathways important for antiviral immunity. These findings demonstrate that YMSM have a unique immune phenotype and rectal microenvironment and support further evaluation of biological factors that influence rectal HIV transmission.

Increasing HIV prevalence rate among men who have sex with men: results of a comparison of two national surveys.

Our objective was to compare HIV prevalence between two national surveys among men who have sex with men in Brazil in 2009 and 2016. HIV prevalence was estimated stratifying by age and socioeconomic status. HIV prevalence increased from 11.9% [95% confidence interval (CI): 9.9-14.3], in 2009, to 19.1% (95% CI: 16.5 - 22.0), in 2016 [odds ratio (OR) = 1.8; 95% CI: 1.3-2.3] increasing 320% among Young MSM of low SES. Political leadership is needed to develop a scientifically sound and inclusive solution.

Insights into the molecular network characteristics of major HIV-1 subtypes in developed Eastern China: a study based on comprehensive molecular surveillance data.

This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive molecular epidemiology study of major HIV-1 subtypes in developed Eastern China (Zhejiang Province). Plasma samples and epidemiological information were collected from 4180 newly diagnosed HIV-1 positive patients in Zhejiang Province in 2021. Pol sequences were obtained to determine the subtypes via multiple analytical tools. HIV-1 molecular networks were constructed on the basis of genetic distances to analyze transmission patterns among major subtypes. Furthermore, the birth-death skyline (BDSKY) model was utilized to estimate the transmission risks associated with large clusters (LCs). In 4180 patients, 3699 (88.49%) pol sequences were successfully obtained and classified into four subtype groups. In the networks under an optimal genetic distance of 0.01 substitutions/site, the majority of links (74.52%, 1383/1856) involved individuals within the same city, highlighting the predominant role of local transmission in driving the HIV-1 epidemic. In the CRF07_BC, CRF01_AE, and others/URFs networks, men who have sex with men (MSM) were the primary sexual transmission population, with the younger MSM group (< 30 years old) exhibiting higher linkage frequencies. Within the CRF08_BC network, 93.98% of individuals were infected primarily through heterosexual contact and had a significantly greater risk of localized clustering than other subtypes did. Moreover, fifteen identified LCs were predominantly transmitted through commercial heterosexual contact (CHC), exhibiting localized clustering and high potential for sustained diffusion. Overall, our findings reveal a diverse and heterogeneous distribution of HIV-1 subtypes in Zhejiang Province, with noticeable variations in hotspots across different geographic areas and populations.

Acceptability of an automated directly observed therapy (DOT) application for PrEP adherence support among young men who have sex with men: a qualitative exploration

ABSTRACT Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) adherence remains a challenge among young men who have sex with men (MSM). We developed and tested a smartphone application (“app”), “DOT Diary”, which combines automated directly observed therapy (DOT) with information about PrEP protection levels, pill-taking reminders, a sexual behavior diary, and a PrEP dosing calendar. To contextualize trial results, we qualitatively explored participants’ app experiences. The trial enrolled 100 young MSM in San Francisco and Atlanta. Participants were randomized 2:1 to DOT Diary versus standard-of-care and followed for 24 weeks. Interviews were conducted with 24 intervention participants. Data were analyzed using a memo-writing approach. Most expressed overall satisfaction with the app (“it was good for its purpose”), despite concerns about technical glitches. The most popular app features were the monthly calendar showing days PrEP was taken and information about level of protection based on pills taken. The DOT component helped participants establish PrEP routines. The reminders were “annoying but effective” at motivating dosing. Opinions about the sexual behavior diary varied. Overall, DOT Diary was acceptable; participants were willing to use it daily to record pill-taking. Critical components included the information about PrEP protection levels and calendar, while others may be modified to improve future success. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03771638.

Effects of Substance Use on Condomless Anal Sex in a Large Sample of Adolescent Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Within and Between Relationship Design.

Substance use is a significant risk factor for HIV infection among adolescent men who have sex with men (AMSM). Substance use may reduce the use of HIV prevention measures or increase the likelihood of engaging in activities with a higher risk of HIV transmission, but there is a lack of studies dedicated to analyzing these mechanisms in adolescents and young MSM. This study aimed to explore the impact of substance use on condomless anal sex (CAS) in a large, racially diverse sample of AMSM. Additionally, we investigated how an individual's general level of substance use moderated the association between substance use before sex and CAS at the partnership level. Baseline data for an HIV prevention intervention were collected through online surveys from April 2018 to June 2020. The sample consisted of 1624 AMSM (M age, 16.69 years) who reported at least one sexual partner in the previous 3months. Participants provided information about their three most recent sexual partners, including their relationship to the partner, PrEP use, frequency of alcohol, marijuana, and non-prescription drug use before sex, and the number of CAS acts. Participants also completed measures of their substance use frequency. Multilevel modeling in Mplus was used for data analysis, accounting for sexual partnerships nested within participants. All models controlled for PrEP use and relationship status. Results revealed a significant positive association between the frequency of non-prescription drug use before sex and CAS at the partnership level. This indicates that higher non-prescription drug use frequency before sex was associated with a greater number of CAS acts with partners. Moreover, the cross-level interaction between alcohol frequency and non-prescription drug use before sex was statistically significant. Specifically, for participants with high alcohol frequency scores, there was a significant positive association between non-prescription drug use before sex and CAS at the partnership level. AMSM with higher average alcohol consumption were more likely to engage in CAS when using non-prescription drugs prior to sex with a partner, compared to those with lower alcohol consumption. This study's use of multilevel data analysis contributes innovatively to the field by shedding light on how substance use operates within sexual relationships and different partnership dynamics. Tailored interventions targeting substance use should be developed to reduce HIV risk among AMSM.

‘You don’t look for love on grindr, that’s for sure’: a qualitative investigation into dating app use of Australian same-sex attracted men

ABSTRACT Dating applications (‘apps’) have become a popular means for men who have sex with men (MSM) to seek sex or relationships. Indeed, dating apps have become popular, in part, because they are perceived as providing LGBTQIA+ people with a safe space to explore their sexuality with a reduced risk of discrimination and violence compared to non-virtual dating. The current study aimed to better understand how Australian MSM experience dating apps, specifically how they perceive that dating apps influence their attitudes about relationships and dating behaviours. Thematic analysis from interviews with 11 MSM adult dating app users identified three themes that were centred around exposure to non-traditional relationship models and conformity to gay dating norms, commodification of dating and safety concerns. Dating apps appear to be a conflicted space for young Australian MSM that may offer some safety for relationship development away from threats of homophobia, but which may facilitate online harassment and predatory behaviours. This paper concludes with recommendations for dating apps to increase security and verification to ensure they offer a safe space for LGBTQIA+ users.

Living a private lie: intersectional stigma, depression and suicidal thoughts for selected young key populations living with HIV in Zambia

BackgroundLimited research has been conducted on the forms, manifestations and effects of intersectional stigma among young HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) in Zambia. In this study, we aimed to address this gap by elucidating the experiences of these in a small group of young, HIV + MSM and TGW in Zambia.MethodsWe applied a mixed-methods design. Data were collected from January 2022 to May 2022. Qualitative data were collected using in-depth interviews while quantitative data were collected using a questionnaire. Qualitative transcripts were coded using thematic analysis while paper-based questionnaire data were entered into Kobo Connect. Descriptive statistics, using chi-squared tests were calculated using Excel. In this paper, we provide a descriptive profile of the sample and then focus on the qualitative findings on intersectional stigma, depression, and contemplation of suicide.ResultsWe recruited 56 participants from three sites: Lusaka, Chipata, and Solwezi districts. Participants’ mean age was 23 years. The study found that 36% of all participants had moderate to significant symptoms of depression, 7% had major depression, 30% had moderate signs of anxiety, 11% had high signs of anxiety, 4% had very high signs of anxiety and 36% had contemplated suicide at least once. A greater proportion of TGW had moderate to significant symptoms of depression (40%) or major depression (10%) compared to MSM, at 33% and 6%, respectively (X2 = 0.65; p = 0.42). Similarly, more TGW (55%) had contemplated suicide than MSM peers (36%, X2=1.87; p = 0.17). In the qualitative data, four emergent themes about the forms, manifestations, and effects of intersectional stigma were (1) HIV, sexual orientation, and gender identity disclosure; (2) Dual identity; (3) Challenges of finding and maintaining sexual partners; (4) Coping and resilience. Overall, having to hide both one’s sexuality and HIV status had a compounding effect and was described as living “a private lie.”ConclusionEffectively addressing stigmas and poor mental health outcomes among young HIV-positive MSM and TGW will require adopting a socio-ecological approach that focuses on structural interventions, more trauma-informed and identity-supportive care for young people with HIV, as well as strengthening of authentic community-informed public health efforts.

Prevalence and Treatment Outcomes of Syphilis among People with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Engaging in High-Risk Sexual Behavior: Real World Data from Northern Greece, 2019-2022.

In this study, we aimed to assess the prevalence of syphilis among people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV; PWH) engaging in high-risk sexual behavior, determine the stage of syphilis, and evaluate treatment efficacy. A retrospective single-center cohort study was conducted at the AHEPA University General Hospital of Thessaloniki, focusing on PWH at high risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) attending outpatient care from January 2019 to December 2022. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected, incident syphilis rates were identified, associations with HIV-related characteristics were explored, and the treatment response was assessed. Among 991 participants, 94 PWH were diagnosed with syphilis, representing 9.4% of the cohort. Incident syphilis cases experienced a decrease in the early COVID-19 era compared to 2019, followed by a gradual increase leading up to 2022. The majority of syphilis cases were asymptomatic latent syphilis (71.1%). Men who have sex with men (MSM) and younger individuals exhibited higher rates of co-infection during the study period. No significant association was found between incident syphilis and HIV-related factors. Most syphilis cases (86%) were treated with benzathine penicillin G (BPG). Treatment with BPG and doxycycline showed an increased success rate (96.7% vs. 92.9%), with no statistically significant difference observed between them (p = 0.438). This study highlights the alarming incidence of syphilis among PWH engaging in high-risk sexual behavior, particularly among younger MSM. BPG remains effective, and alternative regimens like doxycycline show promise, especially in settings with penicillin shortages or patient allergies.

A structural equation model of factors influencing intimate partner violence victimization and health outcomes among men who have sex with men in Bangkok, Thailand

Intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization is a serious public health problem. Factors influencing intimate partner violence among men who have sex with men (MSM) are not well understood in the Asian context where a powerful patriarchal system exists. In order to understand these factors, this study aimed to develop and test a structural equation model (SEM) of factors influencing intimate partner violence victimization and the resulting health outcomes. Data were collected from 382 male couples, who were registered as members of the Rainbow Sky Association of Thailand. The SEM was developed using AMOS version 24.0. that the model fits the empirical data very well (c2/df = 1.09 , p-value &gt; 0.05, GFI = 0.975, RMSEA = 0.015) and found that 1) Intimate partner violence victimization among MSM was directly influenced by the variables of the greatest effect, younger age followed by open sexual orientation; 2) Physical health outcomes were directly influenced by presence in a risky community and history of family violence; 3) Psychological health outcomes were directly influenced by permissive parenting style, and 4) Both physical and mental health outcomes were indirectly influenced by younger age and open sexual orientation. The results suggest that intimate partner violence prevention programs among young MSM should be implemented at an early age, particularly targeting those with a history of family violence, substance abuse, low education and those living in risky communities. Authoritative parenting styles and stigmatization are also matters of concern.

The Best Predictor of Future Behavior May Be the Past: Exploring Behavior Change in Men Who Have Sex with Men Using Pre-exposure Prophylaxis in the Netherlands

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use prevents HIV transmission, and may lead to changes in sexual behavior. We aimed to explore sexual behavior over time, and identify predictors of behavior change in men who have sex with men (MSM) using PrEP at sexual health centers (SHC) in the Netherlands. We used longitudinal data from the national STI surveillance database (January 2018–June 2021) of HIV-negative MSM who first initiated PrEP in the national PrEP pilot. We modelled behavior change after PrEP initiation, and identified predictors of behavior change using multi-state Markov models. The probability of stopping group sex, chemsex, use of poppers or erection stimulants, and having ≥ 10 partners in the past 6 months among included MSM (n = 4,349, n SHC visits = 21,820) was higher compared to the probability of starting with these behaviors after PrEP initiation. However, MSM who used condoms consistently during anal sex had a high probability of changing to inconsistent condom use (0.8) at the next visit, and inconsistent condom users mostly remained inconsistent (0.8). First visit, visiting the SHC more often (vs. regular), and STI diagnosis were predictors of starting or continuing with most of the behaviors associated with increased risk. Behavior change was less likely among older participants (> 34 compared to ≤ 34 years), and during COVID-19 lockdown and post-lockdown periods compared to pre-COVID-19. Although condom use decreased over time, transitions towards stopping with other behaviors associated with increased likelihood of acquiring an STI after PrEP initiation were common. This may suggest increased sexual empowerment, especially among younger MSM. Predictors of behavior change may help to identify MSM who are likely to start with or continue to engage in these behaviors in the near future and to provide suitable and timely counselling about behavior and PrEP adherence.

Patterns and Factors Associated With Alcohol Misuse Among Young Black Men Who Have Sex With Men in New York City.

Alcohol misuse is a significant health concern among gay, bisexual, same-gender-loving, and other men who have sex with men (MSM). Yet, little is known about the severity and predictors of alcohol misuse among self-reported young Black MSM. This study aimed to identify patterns of and factors associated with alcohol misuse in a sample of young Black MSM living in New York City. Baseline data from a randomized controlled trial aimed at improving the uptake of HIV testing among 250 MSM aged 18 to 29 were analyzed. Log-binominal regression analyses were conducted to assess the association of demographic and psychosocial factors with alcohol misuse in the past year and past 3 months among young Black MSM. Overall, 33.2% and 28.0% of young Black MSM in the study experienced alcohol misuse in the past year and past 3 months, respectively. In the adjusted model, factors positively associated with past-year alcohol misuse included marijuana use, a history of drug use, and having one-two or more than two male sex partners. Likewise, participants who used marijuana and those with one-two or more than two male partners were more likely to report past 3-month alcohol misuse. No significant association was found between positive screening for depressive symptoms, chemsex, internalized homophobia, and the likelihood of having alcohol misuse. The high prevalence of alcohol misuse underscores the importance of raising awareness of alcohol misuse and designing alcohol risk reduction programs that jointly address HIV risk among young Black MSM.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of chlamydia and gonorrhoea infections among men who have sex with men in Durban, South Africa.

Despite significant research on the prevalence of STIs in South African men who have sex with men (MSM), recent data on the prevalence and risk factors for curable STI infections among this key populations are limited. This study determined the prevalence of and risk factors associated with Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis infections among MSM. The sample consisted of 200 MSM resident in Durban. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, and urine samples were collected and tested for N. gonorrhoeae and C. trachomatis. The prevalence of N. gonorrhoeae and C. trachomatis were 3.0% and 6.0%, respectively. Younger age was significantly associated with testing positive for C. trachomatis (p=0.037). Being between the ages of 30-39 years old reduced the risk of acquiring C. trachomatis infection (OR: 0.10, 95% CI: 0.0120-0.7564, p=0.026). In addition, being circumcised reduced the risk of contracting C. trachomatis (adjusted OR: 0.01, 95% CI: 0.0005-0.3516, p=0.01). However, having between 2-4 sex partners increased the risk of testing positive for C. trachomatis (adjusted OR: 107.45, 95% CI: 1.3467-8573.3130, p=0.036). The following factors were significantly associated (p<0.05) with testing positive for N. gonorrhoeae infection: cohabiting with sex partner, engaging in group sex, and drug use. Fear and stigma were the main barriers to accessing health care in the studied population. This study provided evidence of high rates of C. trachomatis infection among MSM resident in Durban. Based on the results, South African MSM, especially the young MSM population, should be given priority when delivering intervention programs to prevent STIs.

Mpox across countries from Central and Eastern Europe - 2022 outbreak

BackgroundThe aim of the study was to assess socio-demographical characteristics, clinical presentation, and outcomes in patients diagnosed with mpox. MethodsA survey on patients diagnosed with mpox was performed in 14 countries from Central and Eastern Europe. Data was compared according to HIV status and country of origin (EU vs. non-EU). Mpox diagnosis was confirmed by RT-PCR from oropharyngeal swabs, skin lesions, and other body fluids. ResultsOut of 154 patients confirmed with mpox in 2022, 99.3% were males, with a median age (years) of 35 (IQR 30–39), 90.2% MSM and 48.7% PLWH. Compared to HIV-negative subjects, PLWH had more frequent high-risk behaviours:chemsex (p = 0.015), group sex (p = 0.027), and a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (p = 0.004). Persons from EU were more often PLWH (p = 0.042), MSM (p < 0.0001), had multiple sexual partners (p = 0.025), practiced chemsex (p = 0.008) or group-sex (p = 0.005) and had more often history of STIs (p < 0.0001). The median CD4 cell count/mL at mpox diagnosis was 713 (IQR 486–996) and 73.5% had undetectable HIV VL. The commonest clinical features were fever (108 cases), lymphadenopathy (78), and vesiculo-pustular rash: penile (76), perianal (48), limbs (67). Fifty-one (31%) persons were hospitalized due to complications or epidemiological reasons. Three patients received tecovirimat or cidofovir. The outcome was favorable for all patients, including 4 with severe forms. ConclusionsMpox was diagnosed predominantly in young MSM, with high-risk behaviors and history of STIs. Effective contact tracing and vaccination are important strategic pillars to control mpox outbreaks.

Barriers and facilitators to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake and adherence among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Thailand: a qualitative study

ABSTRACT Young MSM (YMSM), aged 15–24, account for nearly half of new HIV infections in Thailand. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective prevention medicine for populations at substantial HIV risk, yet YMSM frequently have suboptimal uptake of and adherence to PrEP. We conducted 35 in-depth interviews with YMSM to explore barriers and facilitators of both PrEP initiation and adherence. Interviews also elicited the perceptions and experiences of healthcare providers (HCPs) working with YMSM at three clinics in Bangkok. Primary barriers to PrEP initiation were limited accessibility, insufficient knowledge, and efficacy concerns; HCPs identified no-to-low self-perception of HIV risk, pre-existing health problems, fears of side effects, and living in distant provinces as barriers to PrEP initiation. YMSM primarily reported PrEP information and self-perceptions of elevated HIV risk as facilitators to PrEP initiation. Additionally, forgetfulness and low HIV risk awareness were common barriers to PrEP adherence. Reminders were a prominent facilitator of PrEP adherence alongside disclosure to close relationships, the routinization of regimens, and convenient facilities. HCPs regarded counseling as the leading facilitator of PrEP adherence. By understanding the barriers/facilitators of PrEP use, the current study seeks to help develop evidence-informed PrEP intervention programs among YMSM while considering cultural sensitivity.

Prevalence and associated factors of premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction in young, single men who have sex with men in Lima, Peru.

While there is literature on erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) in men, conclusive evidence regarding these sexual health issues and potential associated factors in the young, single men who have sex with men (MSM) population is lacking. The study sought to determine the prevalence and factors associated with PE and ED in young single MSM in the capital of Peru. This was an analytical cross-sectional study in MSM using an online questionnaire. The presence of ED and PE was assessed using the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function and 5-item Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool questionnaires, respectively. In addition, their association with personal, physical health, and sexual behavior variables was evaluated. Prevalence ratios (PRs) were estimated through regression models. Premature ejaculation and Erectile dysfunction in MSM. Of 315 participants, most were between 20 to 29years of age (71.8%), 43.5% identified as homosexual, 59.1% had between 2 and 5 sexual partners, and 40.6% reported that the duration of their sexual relationship was between 1 and 12months. The prevalence of ED was 53.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 47.66%-58.95%), and PE was present in 8.3% (95% CI, 5.46%-11.86%). Factors associated with a higher prevalence of ED were having between 6 and 9 sexual partners (PR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.05-2.11) and having a sexual relationship lasting 13 to 24months (PR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.50-0.98). Furthermore, for each additional year from the onset of the first sexual encounter with another man, the prevalence of PE increased by 7% (PR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.02-1.13). These findings suggest that there is a relationship between an increased number of sexual partners and a higher prevalence of ED. It also suggests that relationships that last for some time may have a protective effect against ED. Strengths include the use of validated instruments, adequate sample size, robust multivariate analysis, and being one of the few studies in Latin America assessing PE and ED in the MSM population. Limitations include the cross-sectional design, nonprobability sampling, and access to participants. Having more sexual partners is associated with increased ED, while relationships lasting 13 to 24months are associated with decreased ED. Each additional year from the onset of the first sexual relationship increases the prevalence of PE. These findings can guide the design of health policies and programs tailored to the MSM community to enhance their well-being and sexual quality of life.

Influence of families and other adult support on HIV prevention outcomes among black men who have sex with men

BackgroundPrior research has consistently shown that the involvement of families plays a vital role in reducing risk behaviors, such as engaging in condomless sex, and promoting HIV prevention behaviors among young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM). With the aim of expanding the existing knowledge, this study aimed to examine the specific influence of families and other supportive adults in facilitating casual condom use, partner condom use, HIV testing, and preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) utilization among young Black MSM.MethodsA sample of YBMSM aged 18–29 years (N = 400) was collected online. We used a path analysis to examine the influence of family factors on PrEP stigma and PrEP use. Respondents were recruited from December 1, 2021, to January 31, 2022. We used a path analysis to examine the direct and indirect effects of family factors on PrEP use through HIV testing and encouraging condom use.ResultsAmong BMSM, other adult support was positive and directly associated with condom use by both casual partners (β = 0.04, p < .05) and partners (β = 0.17, p < .01). Condom use by casual partners was negative and was directly associated with HIV testing (β = − 0.15, p < .01).ConclusionThe primary aim of this research was to examine the influence of family and adult support on HIV prevention behaviors among young Black MSM, including condom use, HIV testing, and PrEP use. Our findings highlight the significance of implementing interventions that incorporate families and other supportive adults to enhance the engagement of young Black MSM in HIV prevention behaviors.

Googling “Twitter Alter” and “HIV/AIDS” in the Philippines: An infodemiological study from 2011 to 2021

Introduction: Online “Twitter Alter” accounts have emerged in the Philippines, particularly among its men who have sex with men (MSM) community, including gay and bisexual men. It enabled them to mask their identities, avoiding discrimination based on their sexual preferences, orientations, and behaviors. Given these and the rising use of the internet, Google Trends can be used as a surrogate measure to determine changes in public interest concerning HIV and Twitter Alter. Methods: This study aimed to elucidate search pattern changes and related interest of the online public regarding “Twitter Alter” and “HIV/AIDS” over ten years from July 2011 to June 2021. An analysis of Google Trends for keywords “Twitter Alter” and “HIV/AIDS (Illness)” from July 2011 to June 2021 was done as a surrogate measure of public interest and awareness. Search volumes, related queries, and topics were described and compared. Results: It was found that the search volume for “Twitter Alter” has increased by about 10000% while the “HIV/AIDS (Illness)” search volume decreased to 67%. Conclusion: Online public interest, as an alternative measure to public awareness, has increased for “Twitter Alter” while decreasing for HIV. Given these, “Twitter Alter” may put its users, mostly young MSM, at a more conducive venue for high-risk sexual behaviors due to the higher behavioral control while avoiding public stigma. Nonetheless, the online “Twitter Alter” community may also be mustered in information campaigns for HIV prevention.

A Behavioral Economic Examination of Sexual Behaviors in the Era of Pre-exposure Prophylaxis via Explanatory Sequential Mixed Methods.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use may be associated with condom use decisions. The current investigation examined sexual decision-making in the context of PrEP among young adult men who have sex with men (MSM) between 18 and 30years old, using an explanatory sequential mixed methods design. For the quantitative aim, 99 MSM currently taking PrEP (i.e., PrEP-experienced) and 140 MSM not currently taking PrEP (i.e., PrEP-naive) completed an online survey, including the Sexual Delay Discounting Task (SDDT), which captures likelihood of condom use. For the qualitative aim, 15 people from each group were interviewed about their (1) conceptualizations of risky sex and (2) ways they manage their sexual risk. Participants were, on average, 25.69years old (SD = 3.07) and 64% White. Results from the quantitative aim revealed, controlling for covariates, PrEP-experienced participants exhibited significantly lower likelihood of (1) using an immediately available condom and (2) waiting for a delayed condom (i.e., sexual delay discounting) compared to PrEP-naive participants. Qualitative themes explaining what young adult MSM consider to be risky sex included: (1) any sex as risky sex, (2) risky sex as "sex without a conversation," and (3) risky sex as sex with risk for physical harm. Themes on ways young adult MSM manage sexual risk were classified as proactive, reactive, and passive. Results suggest that PrEP use is related to condom use decisions. Taken together, quantitative differences in sexual delay discounting, but qualitatively similar conceptualizations and management of risky sex, suggest that the SDDT may be a useful tool in sex research to capture processes (i.e., delay discounting) underlying sexual decision-making that may be missed by traditional self-reports. Implications of results, including potentially providing (good quality) condoms with every PrEP prescription, and future research topics are discussed.