HIV Infection Rate Still Increasing Among Young Black Men Who Have Sex with Men
WASHINGTON—Young black men who have sex with men (MSM) who are engaging in unprotected anal sex often do not believe they are at risk for contracting HIV, even as HIV infection rates appear to be increasing in this population.
In 2007, the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) reported to CDC a 45 percent increase in the number of young black MSM who received diagnoses of HIV infection over two years at a sexually transmitted disease clinic in Jackson, Miss. In response, the MSDH and CDC conducted a survey of 29 young black MSM in the Jackson area who had been diagnosed with HIV infection between January 2006 and April 2008 to characterize risk behavior and HIV testing behavior.
The survey, published in the Feb. 6 issue of MMWR found that during the 12 months prior to receiving their HIV infection diagnosis, 20 of the 29 participants had unprotected anal intercourse, but only three of the 29 thought they were likely or very likely to acquire HIV infection in their lifetimes. Of the 29 black MSM surveyed, the median age at HIV diagnosis was 22 years.
“We found very high levels of risk behaviors. Sixty-nine percent reported unprotected anal sex prior to diagnosis, yet only 10 percent thought they were likely or very likely to get HIV during their lifetime. So, I think this highlights the contrast between the behaviors they are engaging in and their perception of risk,” according to Alexandra Oster, M.D., lead author of the study and an epidemic intelligence service officer at CDC. (more…)
Related~
Amanda responds. So do I.
Part Deux: My chat w/Amanda
