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MSM who exchange sex for money often unaware of HIV infection
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ATLANTA — Men who have sex with men who reported exchanging sex for money are more likely to be unaware of their HIV infection, according to data reported here at the CDC’s National HIV Prevention Conference.
In addition, Lina Nerlander, MPH, Epidemic Intelligence Officer at the CDC, said this population was more likely to report injection drug use, poverty and risky sexual behavior.
“The limited literature available shows that MSM who exchange sex have multiple partners, and that they often face financial pressure to not use a condom,” Nerlander said during a presentation. “STIs are also common among MSM who exchange sex, and STIs can increase the risk for HIV acquisition and transmission.”
Nerlander and colleagues examined a cohort of 8,411 adult MSM recruited from 20 cities in the United States. Participants were tested for HIV infection, and answered interview questions pertaining to demographics, risk and sexual behaviors. Those who did not report current HIV infection but received a positive test while on-site were considered by the researchers to be unaware of their infection. Results were compared between those who did and did not report exchange sex within the previous 12 months and analyzed for potential associations.
According to the researchers, approximately 7% of participating MSM reported exchange sex within the previous year, and 13% were unaware of their HIV infection. Among those who exchange sex, 32% reported it occurred with only one partner, while 19% reported 10 or more exchange partners. HIV was not associated with exchange sex; however, being unaware of current HIV infection was. Exchange sex was more common among MSM who were black, drug users, previously incarcerated, homeless or of low socioeconomic status. MSM reporting exchange sex were more likely to report drug use and risky sexual behaviors such as condomless sex with male and female partners.
“Exchange sex was not independently associated with being HIV-positive, but was associated with being HIV-positive unaware,” Nerlander said. “This suggests that MSM who exchange sex may benefit from more frequent testing.” – by Dave Muoio
Reference:
Nerlander L, et al. Abstract 1315. Presented at: National HIV Prevention Conference; Dec. 6-9, 2015; Atlanta.
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.