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Feelemyer J, Abrams J, Mazumdar M, Irvine NM, Scheidell JD, Turpin RE, Dyer TV, Brewer RA, Hucks-Ortiz C, Caniglia EC, Remch M, Scanlon F, Gaydos CA, Sandh S, Cleland CM, Mayer KH, Khan MR. Age Differences in the Associations Between Incarceration and Subsequent Substance Use, Sexual Risk-Taking, and Incident STI Among Black Sexual Minority Men and Black Transgender Women in the HIV Prevention Trials 061 Cohort. Am J Mens Health 2023; 17:15579883231204120. [PMID: 37942721 PMCID: PMC10637158 DOI: 10.1177/15579883231204120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Incarceration can lead to different risk behaviors often due to increased distress and disruption of social networks. It is not well known, however, how these associations may differ by age. In this study, we measure age differences in longitudinal associations between incarceration and substance use, sex risk, and sexually transmitted infection (STI) among Black sexual minority men and Black transgender women (BSMM/BTW). We recruited BSMM/BTW from 2009 to 2011 that were part of the HIV Prevention Trials Network 061 study. We compared those less than 30 years old (n = 375) to those 30 years old or greater (n = 794) examining substance use, sex risk, and STI infection stratified by age. Logistic regression with inverse probability weighting was used for the statistical analysis. Approximately 59% of the sample reported incarceration history. In adjusted analysis, incarceration was more strongly associated with alcohol use and stimulant use among older individuals as was sexual risk behaviors including buying and selling sex. Concurrent partnerships were associated with the younger age groups. STI incidence was associated with younger individuals while associations with HIV infection were similar for the two age groups. Understanding differences in substance use and STI risk among age cohorts is imperative to the design and implementation of re-entry programs. Younger BSMM/BTW participating in re-entry support programs may benefit in particular from HIV/STI prevention and care efforts, while post-release substance abuse treatment and harm reduction programs should target older individuals with continued substance abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Feelemyer
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jasmyn Abrams
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Medha Mazumdar
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Natalia M. Irvine
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joy D. Scheidell
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rodman E. Turpin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Typhanye V. Dyer
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Ellen C. Caniglia
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Molly Remch
- UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Faith Scanlon
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | | | - Simon Sandh
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Charles M. Cleland
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kenneth H. Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maria R. Khan
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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2
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Crandall A, Phaleng H, Dacus JD, Bista O, Brouard P, Nel D, Reddy V, Sandfort T, Knox J. The social and sexual lives of Black sexual minority men 30 years of age and older in South Africa. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1923. [PMID: 36243701 PMCID: PMC9569126 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14303-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Black sexual minority men (SMM) ages 30 and older are under-represented in HIV studies in sub-Saharan Africa, despite being at increased risk of HIV infection and contributing to potential onward HIV transmission. To better understand the social and sexual lives of older Black South African SMM, we conducted in-depth interviews with SMM who were > 30 years old. Methods From March–September 2016, we recruited a convenience sample of 37 SMM ages 30 and older by partnering with an LGBTQ+ organization in Tshwane, Pretoria. Men were interviewed about various aspects of their lives, including their sexual orientation, social connectedness, experiences with stigma and perspectives on participating in research. Results Participants described their experiences with their sexual identities, cultural and social implications of disclosure, and their perspective on South Africa’s political perspectives on the LGBTQ+ community. Men described how these experiences influence their trust in research and comfort participating in studies. Conclusions Inferences drawn from these findings provide direction on how to improve middle-aged SMM’s representation in research, such as recruiting a higher proportion of older and middle-aged SMM to serve as seed participants and building stronger community partnerships to disseminate study findings to settings where data collection is conducted. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-14303-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Crandall
- Mailman School of Public Health, Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| | | | - Jagadīśa-Devaśrī Dacus
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing at Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Oshin Bista
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York, NY, USA
| | - Pierre Brouard
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Dawie Nel
- OUT LGBT Well-Being, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Vasu Reddy
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Theo Sandfort
- Mailman School of Public Health, Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Justin Knox
- Mailman School of Public Health, Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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3
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Fujimoto K, Paraskevis D, Kuo JC, Hallmark CJ, Zhao J, Hochi A, Kuhns LM, Hwang LY, Hatzakis A, Schneider JA. Integrated molecular and affiliation network analysis: Core-periphery social clustering is associated with HIV transmission patterns. SOCIAL NETWORKS 2022; 68:107-117. [PMID: 34262236 PMCID: PMC8274587 DOI: 10.1016/j.socnet.2021.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates the two-mode core-periphery structures of venue affiliation networks of younger Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM). We examined the association between these structures and HIV phylogenetic clusters, defined as members who share highly similar HIV strains that are regarded as a proxy for sexual affiliation networks. Using data from 114 YBMSM who are living with HIV in two large U.S. cities, we found that HIV phylogenetic clustering patterns were associated with social clustering patterns whose members share affiliation with core venues that overlap with those of YBMSM. Distinct HIV transmission patterns were found in each city, a finding that can help to inform tailored venue-based and network intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayo Fujimoto
- Department of Health Promotion, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin Street, UCT 2514, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Dimitrios Paraskevis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Jacky C. Kuo
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030
| | | | - Jing Zhao
- Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Andre Hochi
- Department of Health Promotion, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin Street, UCT 2514, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Lisa M Kuhns
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, and Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, 225 E. Chicago Avenue, #161, Chicago, IL 60611
| | - Lu-Yu Hwang
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Science, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Angelos Hatzakis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - John A. Schneider
- Department of Medicine and Public Health Sciences and the Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, 5837 South Maryland Avenue MC 5065, Chicago, IL 60637
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4
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Vergara-Ortega DN, López-Gatell H, Bautista-Arredondo S, Colchero A, Sosa-Rubí SG, Morales-Vazquez M, Herrera-Ortiz A, Olamendi-Portugal M, García-Cisneros S, Sevilla-Reyes EE, Hernández-Avila M, Sánchez-Alemán MA. Regional disparity of HIV incidence and prevalence among men who have sex with men. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:917. [PMID: 34488671 PMCID: PMC8419902 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06582-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV incidence can be estimated with cross-sectional studies using clinical, serological, and molecular data. Worldwide, HIV incidence data in only men who have sex with men (MSM) are scarce and principally focus on those with healthcare or under treatment. However, better estimates can be obtained through studies with national representativeness. The objective was to estimate the prevalence, incidence, and factors associated with acquiring HIV in a national sample of MSM who attend meeting places, considering geographical regions. METHODS A nationally representative survey of MSM attending meeting places was performed in Mexico. Participants answered a questionnaire, and a dried blood spot (DBS) was collected. Samples were classified as recent infections using an algorithm with HIV status, antiretroviral therapy, and the result of BED-EIA assay. Parameters were analysed considering regions and demographic and sexual behaviour characteristics. RESULTS The national HIV prevalence was 17.4% with regional differences; the highest prevalence (20.7%) was found in Mexico City, and the lowest prevalence was found in the West region (11.5%). The incidence was 9.4 per 100 p/y, with regional values from 6.2 to 13.2 for the Northeast and the Centre regions, respectively. Age, age at sexual debut, low wealth index, and rewarded sex were associated with HIV prevalence. Centre region, use of private clinics as health services, and having sex exclusively with men were associated with recent HIV infections. CONCLUSIONS The incidence and prevalence showed regional differences, suggesting a difference in the dynamics of HIV transmission; some regions have a greater case accumulation, and others have a greater rate of new infections. Understanding this dynamic will allow developing health programs focused on HIV prevention or treating people already living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- D N Vergara-Ortega
- Centro de Investigación Sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Av. Universidad No.655, Col. Santa María Ahuacatitlán, 62100, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - H López-Gatell
- Centro de Investigación Sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Av. Universidad No.655, Col. Santa María Ahuacatitlán, 62100, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - S Bautista-Arredondo
- Centro de Investigación en Sistemas de Salud, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - A Colchero
- Centro de Investigación en Sistemas de Salud, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - S G Sosa-Rubí
- Centro de Investigación en Sistemas de Salud, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - M Morales-Vazquez
- Centro de Investigación en Sistemas de Salud, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - A Herrera-Ortiz
- Centro de Investigación Sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Av. Universidad No.655, Col. Santa María Ahuacatitlán, 62100, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - M Olamendi-Portugal
- Centro de Investigación Sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Av. Universidad No.655, Col. Santa María Ahuacatitlán, 62100, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - S García-Cisneros
- Centro de Investigación Sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Av. Universidad No.655, Col. Santa María Ahuacatitlán, 62100, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - E E Sevilla-Reyes
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - M Hernández-Avila
- Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - M A Sánchez-Alemán
- Centro de Investigación Sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Av. Universidad No.655, Col. Santa María Ahuacatitlán, 62100, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
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Zhao M, Liu H, Chen X, Feldman MW. Sexual network and condom use among male migrants in the context of China's gender imbalance. AIDS Care 2021; 34:1048-1052. [PMID: 34115571 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1938965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
In the context of China's gender imbalance, this study addresses the characteristics of sexual networks and their association with condom use in a sample of 713 male migrants (aged 28-64) who have rural hukou (household registration) in China. Descriptive statistics, univariate analyses, and multilevel random intercept models were used to investigate the characteristics of sexual networks and their associations with condom use. We found that age, marital status, type of sex partners, support (the main help given to each sex partner by the participant), type of sexual intercourse, and stability of sexual relationships were associated with condom use. The sexual networks were mainly composed of sex partners of similar age (58.46%), unmarried people (50.53%), and regular partners (49.38%). Married male migrants were more likely to use condoms with casual partners; unmarried male migrants were less likely to use condoms in emotional and stable relationships. Variation in individual factors, sex partners, and sexual relationship characteristics contribute to participation in condomless sex by male migrants. HIV prevention strategies should target unmarried male migrants and their casual sex partners by increasing their awareness of the risk of HIV transmission and the availability of free condoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhao
- School of Public Policy and Administration, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Huijun Liu
- School of Public Policy and Administration, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangjun Chen
- School of Public Policy and Administration, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
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Macapagal K, Kraus A, Moskowitz DA, Birnholtz J. Geosocial Networking Application Use, Characteristics of App-Met Sexual Partners, and Sexual Behavior Among Sexual and Gender Minority Adolescents Assigned Male at Birth. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2020; 57:1078-1087. [PMID: 31846592 PMCID: PMC7297657 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2019.1698004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Although many sexual and gender minorities (SGM) assigned male at birth (AMAB) use sexual networking applications intended for adult sexual minority men, little is known about adolescents' use of these technologies and characteristics of their online-met partners. We conducted an online survey of 219 sexually experienced SGM AMAB adolescents in the USA aged 15-17 (39.3% racial/ethnic minority; 74.9% gay; 94.1% cisgender male). Questions assessed app use patterns, partner-seeking behaviors on sexual minority male-specific apps vs. social media/other dating apps, app-met partner characteristics, and sexual behavior with app-met partners. Most (70.3%) used apps for sexual minority men, 14.6% used social media/other apps to meet partners, and 15.1% used neither. Nearly 60% of adolescents who used any type of app reported having met people from the apps in person, and nearly 90% of these reported at least one online-met sexual partner. Most partners were reportedly older than participants, and participants were more likely to report condomless receptive anal sex with older (vs. younger) online-met partners. Although partnerships were primarily sexual in nature, a minority reported friendships or serious partnerships. Meeting same-sex/gender partners via applications for adults may be common among SGM AMAB adolescents, which has implications for their sexual health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Macapagal
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Ashley Kraus
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - David A. Moskowitz
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jeremy Birnholtz
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Communication Studies, Northwestern University, 2240 Campus Dr., Evanston, IL 60208, USA
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7
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Robbins SJ, Dauda W, Kokogho A, Ndembi N, Mitchell A, Adebajo S, Gaydos CA, Peel S, Ramadhani HO, Robb ML, Baral SD, Ake JA, Charurat ME, Crowell TA, Nowak RG, on behalf of the TRUST/RV368 Study Group. Oral sex practices among men who have sex with men and transgender women at risk for and living with HIV in Nigeria. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0238745. [PMID: 32886722 PMCID: PMC7473579 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0238745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) are at risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including those of the oropharynx. We estimated the prevalence and factors associated with oral sex practices and characterized oropharyngeal STIs among a cohort of MSM and TGW in Nigeria. Methods From 2013 to 2018, TRUST/RV368 recruited MSM and TGW into HIV/STI diagnosis and treatment at community-based clinics in Nigeria. Participants who completed HIV testing and oral sex questions at enrollment were selected. Cross-sectional analyses with bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Oropharyngeal swab testing for Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) began in 2014 and for those with diagnostic results at enrollment, the unadjusted association of oral sex practices with oropharyngeal STIs was conducted. Results A total of 1342 participants had a median age of 25 years (interquartile range: 22–29), 58% were living with HIV, and 69% reported oral sex practices. Factors associated with increased odds of engaging in oral sex included living with HIV (adjusted [a]OR: 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1–1.8), self-identifying as a woman (aOR:1.8, 95% CI: 1.1–2.8), mobile phone ownership (aOR:2.3, 95% CI: 1.3–3.9), receptive anal sex (aOR:1.7, 95% CI:1.3–2.3) and multiple male sexual partners (2 to 4 vs. ≤1, aOR:1.5, 95% CI: 1.0–2.2; 5+ vs ≤1, aOR:2.9, 95% CI:1.9–4.3). Oropharyngeal STI prevalence was 7% (52/752) and higher among those who engaged in oral sex compared to those who did not (unadjusted OR: 2.5, 95% CI:1.2–5.3). Conclusions Oral sex was common and associated with an increased odds of oropharyngeal STIs among MSM and TGW from Nigeria. In the absence of screening and treatment guidelines, condoms continue to be the mainstay for oral STI prevention. A pre-exposure prophylaxis for bacterial STIs would complement current prevention strategies to curb transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J. Robbins
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Wuese Dauda
- Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Afoke Kokogho
- HJF Medical Research International, Abuja, Nigeria
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, United States of America
| | - Nicaise Ndembi
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Andrew Mitchell
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Sylvia Adebajo
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation- A University of Maryland Baltimore Affiliate, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Charlotte A. Gaydos
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Sheila Peel
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, United States of America
| | - Habib O. Ramadhani
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Merlin L. Robb
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, United States of America
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Stefan D. Baral
- Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Julie A. Ake
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, United States of America
| | - Man E. Charurat
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Trevor A. Crowell
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, United States of America
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Rebecca G. Nowak
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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8
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Mizuno Y, Borkowf CB, Hirshfield S, Mustanski B, Sullivan PS, MacGowan RJ. Age- and Race/Ethnicity-Specific Sex Partner Correlates of Condomless Sex in an Online Sample of Hispanic/Latino, Black/African-American, and White Men Who Have Sex with Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:1903-1914. [PMID: 31845149 PMCID: PMC7295651 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01534-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
We sought to identify and compare correlates of condomless receptive anal intercourse with HIV-positive or unknown status partners (CRAI) for younger (< 25 years) and older (≥ 25 years) Hispanic/Latino, black/African-American, and white men who have sex with men (MSM). Baseline data from the Evaluation of Rapid HIV Self-Testing among MSM Project (eSTAMP), a randomized controlled trial with MSM (n = 2665, analytical sample size = 2421), were used. Potential correlates included participants' sociodemographic characteristics and HIV status as well as the characteristics of participants' partners. Younger Hispanic/Latino and black men were most likely to report having older sex partners (≥ 50% of partners being at least 5 years older), and having older partners was a significant correlate of CRAI among younger Hispanic/Latino and white men. Regardless of race/ethnicity, not knowing one's HIV status was a significant correlate of CRAI among younger men, whereas having a black sex partner was a significant correlate among older men. HIV prevention initiatives could address these and other correlates specific to race/ethnicity groups to target their prevention resources and messaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Mizuno
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, NE Mail Stop US8-5, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA.
| | - Craig B Borkowf
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, NE Mail Stop US8-5, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Robin J MacGowan
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, NE Mail Stop US8-5, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
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9
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Fujimoto K, Wang P, Li DH, Kuhns LM, Amith M, Schneider JA. Collective Avoidance of Social and Health Venues and HIV Racial Inequities: Network Modeling of Venue Avoidance on Venue Affiliation, Social Networks, and HIV Risk. HEALTH EDUCATION & BEHAVIOR 2020; 47:202-212. [PMID: 32090656 DOI: 10.1177/1090198119876240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Many younger Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) are exposed to homonegativity, societal stigma, and racial discrimination in their social environment. This study uses a social network modeling methodology to identify aspects of the social environment that are not often described, that is, the places and spaces or "venues" where YBMSM socialize or where they receive HIV prevention services. In particular, we identify the structural features of avoidance of these venues as an indicator of negative experiences, using bipartite exponential random graph models. Our study theorizes that YBMSM avoid certain venues en masse through information diffusion among social network members. We specify two social mechanisms of collective venue avoidance-(1) homophily (i.e., ego-alter similarity in venue avoidance) and (2) popular opinion leaders (as early adopters)-and test the corresponding hypotheses that (Hypothesis 1) socially connected individuals avoid venues together and that (Hypothesis 2) popular individuals would be more likely to avoid venues. Based on data collected from YBMSM aged 16 to 29 years between 2014 and 2016 in Houston, Texas (N = 227) and Chicago, Illinois (N = 241), results indicate that Hypothesis 1 was supported in both cities but that Hypothesis 2 was supported only in Chicago. The findings suggest that the structural patterns of venue avoidance are different between cities and may inform dissemination of prevention messages and delivery of venue- and social influence-based HIV interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayo Fujimoto
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Peng Wang
- Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Lisa M Kuhns
- Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.,Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Muhammad Amith
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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Factors associated with unprotected anal intercourse among male students who have sex with men in three Northern regions of China. Chin Med J (Engl) 2020; 132:1639-1644. [PMID: 31268908 PMCID: PMC6759099 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000000311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) has previously been associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Male students who have sex with men (SMSM) are at increased exposure to experience UAI. The aim of this study was to investigate the status of UAI and related factors among SMSM in three northern regions of China. Methods: From November 2018 to January 2019, SMSM, 18 years or older, studying or living in Beijing, Tianjin, or Shijiazhuang, who had anal sex in the past 6 months were recruited by community-based organizations to participate in an unmatched, case-control study. Detailed demographic and behavioral information were collected via self-administrated electronic questionnaires and factors related to UAI were assessed using uni- and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: Among the 511 SMSM included in the study, 210 (41.1%) reported UAI in the past 6 months. SMSM who had sexual partners at least 10 years older than themselves (odds ratio [OR] = 2.277, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.380–3.756), used vacant capsules before sexual activity (OR = 3.858, 95% CI: 1.472–10.106), had a self-perceived moderate-HIV risk (OR = 2.128, 95% CI: 1.403–3.227), and unprotected, first anal intercourse (OR = 2.236, 95% CI: 1.506–3.320) had increased odds of UAI. Conclusions: Factors associated with increased odds of engaging in UAI in the past 6 months among SMSM included having older sexual partners, using vacant capsules, having a self-perceived moderate risk of HIV, and unprotected, first anal intercourse. Continuing education on risk reduction, including improving condom decision making in age-discordant relationships could help address the sexual risk behaviors among SMSM.
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Teixeira da Silva D, Bouris A, Voisin D, Hotton A, Brewer R, Schneider J. Social Networks Moderate the Syndemic Effect of Psychosocial and Structural Factors on HIV Risk Among Young Black Transgender Women and Men who have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:192-205. [PMID: 31289985 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02575-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The interaction between the cumulative effect of psychosocial and structural factors (i.e. syndemic effect) and social networks among young Black transgender women and men who have sex with men (YBTM) remains understudied. A representative cohort of 16-29 year-old YBTM (n = 618) was assessed for syndemic factors [i.e. substance use; community violence; depression; poverty; justice system involvement (JSI)], social network characteristics, condomless anal sex (CAS), group sex (GS), and HIV-infection. The syndemic index significantly increased the odds of CAS, GS, and HIV-infection, and these effects were moderated by network characteristics. Network JSI buffered the effect on CAS, romantic network members buffered the effect on GS, and network age and proportion of family network members buffered the effect on HIV-infection. The proportion of friend network members augmented the effect on GS and HIV-infection. Future research to prevent HIV among YBTM should consider social network approaches that target both structural and psychosocial syndemic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Teixeira da Silva
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Combined Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Chicago, 5841 S Maryland Avenue MC 7082, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Alida Bouris
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dexter Voisin
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Anna Hotton
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - John Schneider
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Ricks JM, Crosby RA, Mena L. Relationship power and HIV risk among young Black men who have sex with men in the Southern United States. Sex Health 2019; 15:292-297. [PMID: 29709213 DOI: 10.1071/sh17084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of relationship power on HIV risk behaviour among young Black men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Southern US. METHODS Data from 425 Black/African American males aged 18-29 years who reported recent anal intercourse with a male partner were analysed. Five selected measures of relationship power were tested for correlation and association with protected receptive anal intercourse using contingency tables and logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Acts of 100% protected receptive anal intercourse were common (n=277, 65.2%). Men who reported low barriers to condom negotiation were significantly more likely to report protected acts (P<0.001). Men who reported 100% protected acts were less likely to report financial dependence on male sexual partners and serosorting behaviour (12.0% vs 20.7%, P=0.02; 31.5% vs 49.8%, P<0.001 respectively). CONCLUSION Future efforts should further examine the role of relationship power in HIV risk among young Black MSM, including the intersection of individual, dyadic and social-structure risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- JaNelle M Ricks
- Health Behavior and Health Promotion, Ohio State University College of Public Health, 1841 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Richard A Crosby
- Health, Behavior & Society, University of Kentucky College of Public Health, 111 Washington Avenue, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Leandro Mena
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
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Yang J, Xu H, Li S, Cheng W, Gu Y, Xu P, Yu Q, Lv F. The characteristics of mixing patterns of sexual dyads and factors correlated with condomless anal intercourse among men who have sex with men in Guangzhou, China. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:722. [PMID: 31182070 PMCID: PMC6558892 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7082-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The HIV prevalence among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China has increased yearly. This study aimed to explore the association between the characteristics of social communication and condomless anal intercourse (CAI) among MSM and the implications for prevention and control of HIV among MSM in China using an egocentric network framework. Methods The data were collected in Guangzhou between November 2016 and May 2017 through standardized face-to-face interviews. The participants were recruited among MSM who received voluntary counselling and testing services (VCT) provided by nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and the local Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We used the framework of the egocentric network analysis, the odd ratios of CAI were analyzed using generalized estimating equations (GEE). Results In total, 1073 MSM who nominated 2667 sexual partners were sampled. MSM who were approximately 30 years old and chose sexual partners of different age category were more likely to engage in CAI. Participants with high level education who were in partnerships with individuals with lower education levels had a higher risk of CAI. Participants who reported having a strong relationship with their sexual partners(AOR = 1.31) were associated with a higher probability of experiencing CAI during sex; while having sexual partners who were unmarried (OR = 0.56), and participants who reported meeting sexual partners online (AOR = 0.74) or, having sex with an occasional partner (AOR = 0.44)were less likely to engage in CAI. Conclusion Our study indicates that the strength of sexual dyadic relational ties and different social communication mixing patterns across ages, educational categories, and marital status were associated with CAI. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12889-019-7082-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Yang
- The National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155th Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, China
| | - Huifang Xu
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuo Li
- United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Woman, China Office, Beijing, China
| | - Weibin Cheng
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuzhou Gu
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Xu
- The National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155th Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, China
| | - Qiuyan Yu
- The National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155th Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Lv
- The National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155th Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, China.
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Hookup App Use, Sexual Behavior, and Sexual Health Among Adolescent Men Who Have Sex With Men in the United States. J Adolesc Health 2018; 62:708-715. [PMID: 29784114 PMCID: PMC5967650 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 01/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Geosocial networking applications (e.g., "hookup apps") are widely used among adult men who have sex with men (MSM). Little is known about adolescent MSM's (AMSM) use of these apps. Exploratory research is needed as AMSM's app use poses various ethical, legal, and sexual health concerns. This article examined AMSM's app use patterns and its associations with their sexual health and behavior. METHODS Two hundred sexually experienced AMSM in the United States (M age = 16.6, 49% racial/ethnic minority) completed online survey questions assessing their use of apps specific to MSM and not specific to MSM to meet partners for dating and sex, as well as their sexual behavior and HIV risk. RESULTS Overall, 52.5% of participants (n = 105) reported using MSM-specific apps to meet partners for sex. Of these, most participants reported having oral (75.7%, n = 78) and anal sex (62.1%, n = 64) with those partners. Of those who reported having anal sex, 78.1% (n = 50) had sex with those partners more than once, and only 25.0% (n = 16) always used condoms with those partners. Relative to those who used only non-MSM-specific apps, MSM-specific app users reported more sex partners and condomless anal sex partners, greater perceived risk of HIV, more engagement in sexual health services, and greater odds of HIV testing. CONCLUSIONS Use of MSM-specific apps was not uncommon among this sample of AMSM. Patterns of risk behavior and HIV testing were similar to samples of adult MSM app users. Further research should investigate AMSM's app-related sexual and HIV/sexually transmitted infection prevention decision-making to guide sexual health education efforts for AMSM.
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