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Objectives. To examine the potential impact of contact tracing to identify contacts and prevent mpox transmission among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) as the outbreak expanded. Methods. We assessed contact tracing outcomes from 10 US jurisdictions before and after access to the mpox vaccine was expanded from postexposure prophylaxis for persons with known exposure to include persons at high risk for acquisition (May 17–June 30, 2022, and July 1–31, 2022, respectively). Results. Overall, 1986 mpox cases were reported in MSM from included jurisdictions (240 before expanded vaccine access; 1746 after expanded vaccine access). Most MSM with mpox were interviewed (95.0% before vaccine expansion and 97.0% after vaccine expansion); the proportion who named at least 1 contact decreased during the 2 time periods (74.6% to 38.9%). Conclusions. During the period when mpox cases among MSM increased and vaccine access expanded, contact tracing became less efficient at identifying exposed contacts. Public Health Implications. Contact tracing was more effective at identifying persons exposed to mpox in MSM sexual and social networks when case numbers were low, and it could be used to facilitate vaccine access. (Am J Public Health. 2023;113(7):815–818. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307301) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundBecause Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) experience high rates of both HIV and incarceration relative to other groups, the various stages of criminal justice involvement may serve as important intervention points for addressing HIV and related conditions in this group. Although systematic reviews of HIV interventions targeting MSM in general and BMSM in particular exist, no review has explored the range and impact of HIV, sexually transmitted infection (STI), and substance use prevention and care continuum interventions focused on criminal justice-involved (CJI) populations.ObjectivesTo describe the range and impact of published HIV, STI, and related substance use interventions for US-based CJI populations and to understand their relevance for BMSM.Search methodsWe conducted systematic searches in the following databases: PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane, CINAHL, and PsycINFO, covering the period preceding December 1, 2016.Selection criteriaWe selected articles in scientific publications involving quantitative findings for studies of US-based interventions that focused on CJI individuals, with outcomes related to sexual or substance use risk behaviors, HIV, or STIs. We excluded studies if they provided no demographic information, had minimal representation of the population of interest (

ObjectivesTo characterize uptake of HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in a community setting and to identify disparities in PrEP use by demographic and behavioral factors associated with increased HIV risk.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study of 19 587 men who have sex with men and transgender people visiting a Los Angeles, California, clinic specializing in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender care between August 2015 and February 2018 by using clinical care data.ResultsSeventy percent of patients met PrEP eligibility criteria, while 10% reported PrEP use. Using sex drugs, reporting both condomless anal intercourse and recent sexually transmitted infection, older age, and higher education level were associated with higher odds of PrEP use given eligibility. Latino or Asian race/ethnicity and bisexual orientation were associated with lower odds of PrEP use given eligibility. Higher odds of perceived need were associated with demographic risk factors but PrEP use was not similarly elevated.ConclusionsDiscrepancies between PrEP eligibility, perceived need, and use reveal opportunities to improve PrEP delivery in community settings. Public Health Implications. Efforts are needed to facilitate PrEP uptake in populations with highest HIV incidence.

ObjectivesWe assessed the relation of childhood sexual abuse (CSA), intimate partner violence (IPV), and depression to HIV sexual risk behaviors among Black men who have sex with men (MSM).MethodsParticipants were 1522 Black MSM recruited from 6 US cities between July 2009 and December 2011. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used.ResultsParticipants reported sex before age 12 years with someone at least 5 years older (31.1%), unwanted sex when aged 12 to 16 years (30%), IPV (51.8%), and depression (43.8%). Experiencing CSA when aged 12 to 16 years was inversely associated with any receptive condomless anal sex with a male partner (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.50; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.29, 0.86). Pressured or forced sex was positively associated with any receptive anal sex (AOR = 2.24; 95% CI = 1.57, 3.20). Experiencing CSA when younger than 12 years, physical abuse, emotional abuse, having been stalked, and pressured or forced sex were positively associated with having more than 3 male partners in the past 6 months. Among HIV-positive MSM (n = 337), CSA between ages 12 and 16 years was positively associated with having more than 3 male partners in the past 6 months.ConclusionsRates of CSA, IPV, and depression were high, but associations with HIV sexual risk outcomes were modest.

ObjectivesWe examined whether and how an HIV prevention diffusion-based intervention spread throughout participants' online social networks and whether changes in social network ties were associated with increased HIV prevention and testing behaviors.MethodsWe randomly assigned 112 primarily racial/ethnic minority men who have sex with men (MSM) to receive peer-delivered HIV (intervention) or general health (control) information over 12 weeks through closed Facebook groups. We recorded participants' public Facebook friend networks at baseline (September 2010) and follow-up (February 2011), and assessed whether changes in network growth were associated with changes in health engagement and HIV testing.ResultsWithin-group ties increased in both conditions from baseline to follow-up. Among the intervention group, we found a significant positive relation between increased network ties and using social media to discuss sexual behaviors. We found a positive trending relationship between increased network ties and likelihood of HIV testing, follow-up for test results, and participation in online community discussions. No significant differences were seen within control groups.ConclusionsAmong high-risk MSM, peer-led social media HIV prevention interventions can increase community cohesion. These changes appear to be associated with increased HIV prevention and testing behaviors.

ObjectivesWe examined the associations between specific types and sources of discrimination and mental health outcomes among US racial/ethnic minority men who have sex with men (MSM) and how these associations varied by race/ethnicity.MethodsA chain-referral sample of 403 African American, 393 Asian and Pacific Islander (API), and 400 Latino MSM recruited in Los Angeles County, California completed a standardized questionnaire. Data were obtained from the Ethnic Minority Men's Health Study from May 2008 to October 2009.ResultsPast-year experiences of racism within the general community and perceived homophobia among heterosexual friends were positively associated with depression and anxiety. Past-year homophobia experienced within the general community was also positively associated with anxiety. These statistically significant associations did not vary across racial/ethnic groups. The positive association of perceived racism within the gay community with anxiety differed by race/ethnicity, and was statistically significant only for APIs. Perceived homophobia within the family was not associated with either depression or anxiety.ConclusionsHigher levels of experiences of discrimination were associated with psychological distress among MSM of color. However, specific types and sources of discrimination were differentially linked to negative mental health outcomes among African American, API, and Latino MSM.

ObjectivesWe used data from the National Health Interview Survey to compare health care access among individuals involved in same-sex versus opposite-sex relationships.MethodsWe conducted descriptive and logistic regression analyses from pooled data on 614 individuals in same-sex relationships and 93418 individuals in opposite-sex relationships.ResultsWomen in same-sex relationships (adjusted odds ratio [OR]=0.60; 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.39, 0.92) were significantly less likely than women in opposite-sex relationships to have health insurance coverage, to have seen a medical provider in the previous 12 months (OR=0.66; 95% CI=0.46, 0.95), and to have a usual source of health care (OR=0.50; 95% CI=0.35, 0.71); they were more likely to have unmet medical needs as a result of cost issues (OR=1.85; 95% CI=1.16, 2.96). In contrast, health care access among men in same-sex relationships was equivalent to or greater than that among men in opposite-sex relationships.ConclusionsIn this study involving a nationwide probability sample, we found some important differences in access to health care between individuals in same-sex and opposite-sex relationships, particularly women.

Objectives. We examined correlates of condomless anal intercourse with nonmain sexual partners among African American men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods. We recruited social networks composed of 445 Black MSM from 2012 to 2014 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Cleveland, Ohio; and Miami Beach, Florida. Participants reported past-3-month sexual behavior, substance use, and background, psychosocial, and HIV-related characteristics. Results. Condomless anal intercourse outside main concordant partnerships, reported by 34.4% of MSM, was less likely in the case of no alcohol and marijuana use in the past 30 days, and higher risk-reduction behavioral intentions. High frequency of condomless anal intercourse acts with nonmain partners was associated with high gay community participation, weak risk-reduction intentions, safer sex not being perceived as a peer norm, low condom-use self-efficacy, and longer time since most recent HIV testing. Conclusions. Condomless anal intercourse with non main partners among Black MSM was primarily associated with gay community participation, alcohol and marijuana use, and risk-reduction behavioral intentions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses challenges confronting efforts to address and respond to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Topics include an increase in new HIV infections among men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender people, and other socially excluded groups, the encouragement of discrimination and hostility against sexual and gender minorities and people living with HIV by politicians and religious leaders, and the significant number of individuals that lack access to antiretroviral drugs and health care.

Objectives. We estimated HIV prevalence among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women in Bogotá, Colombia, and explored differences between HIV-positive individuals who are aware and unaware of their serostatus. Methods. In this cross-sectional 2011 study, we used respondent-driven sampling (RDS) to recruit 1000 MSM and transgender women, who completed a computerized questionnaire and received an HIV test. Results. The RDS-adjusted prevalence was 12.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 8.7, 15.8), comparable to a previous RDS-derived estimate. Among HIV- positive participants, 39.7% (95% CI = 25.0, 54.8) were aware of their serostatus and 60.3% (95% CI = 45.2, 75.5) were unaware before this study. HIV-positive--unaware individuals were more likely to report inadequate insurance coverage, exchange sex (i.e., sexual intercourse in exchange for money, goods, or services), and substance use than other participants. HIV-positive--aware participants were least likely to have had condomless anal intercourse in the previous 3 months. Regardless of awareness, HIV-positive participants reported more violence and forced relocation experiences than HIV-negative participants. Conclusions. There is an urgent need to increase HIV detection among MSM and transgender women in Bogotá . HIV-positive--unaware group characteristics suggest an important role for structural, social, and individual interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. We investigated the possibility that men who have sex with men (MSM) and women who have sex with women (WSW) may be at higher risk for early mortality associated with suicide and other sexual orientation–associated health risks. Methods. We used data from the 1988–2002 General Social Surveys, with respondents followed up for mortality status as of December 31, 2008. The surveys included 17 886 persons aged 18 years or older, who reported at least 1 lifetime sexual partner. Of these, 853 reported any same-sex partners; 17 033 reported only different-sex partners. Using gender-stratified analyses, we compared these 2 groups for all-cause mortality and HIV-, suicide-, and breast cancer–related mortality. Results. The WSW evidenced greater risk for suicide mortality than presumptively heterosexual women, but there was no evidence of similar sexual orientation–associated risk among men. All-cause mortality did not appear to differ by sexual orientation among either women or men. HIV-related deaths were not elevated among MSM or breast cancer deaths among WSW. Conclusions. The elevated suicide mortality risk observed among WSW partially confirms public health concerns that sexual minorities experience greater burden from suicide-related mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. We examined associations between identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) and lacking a connection with an adult at school on adolescent substance use and mental health outcomes including suicidality. Methods. We analyzed data from the 2009 New York City Youth Risk Behavior Survey (n = 8910). Outcomes of interest included alcohol use, marijuana use, illicit drug use, depressive symptomatology, suicide ideation, and suicide attempt. Results. The prevalence of each outcome was significantly higher among LGB adolescents than heterosexual adolescents and among those who lacked an adult connection at school than among those who did have such a connection. Even when LGB adolescents had an adult connection at school, their odds of most outcomes were significantly higher than for heterosexual adolescents. Those LGB adolescents who lacked a school adult connection had the poorest outcomes (about 45% reported suicide ideation; 31% suicide attempt). Conclusions. Adolescents who are LGB, particularly those who lack a connection with school adults, are at high risk for substance use and poorer mental health outcomes. Interventions should focus on boosting social support and improving outcomes for this vulnerable group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. We examined the prevalence and associations between behavioral and identity dimensions of sexual orientation among adolescents in the United States, with consideration of differences associated with race/ethnicity, sex, and age. Methods. We used pooled data from 2005 and 2007 Youth Risk Behavior Surveys to estimate prevalence of sexual orientation variables within demographic sub-groups. We used multilevel logistic regression models to test differences in the association between sexual orientation identity and sexual behavior across groups. Results. There was substantial incongruence between behavioral and identity dimensions of sexual orientation, which varied across sex and race/ ethnicity. Whereas girls were more likely to identify as bisexual, boys showed a stronger association between same-sex behavior and a bisexual identity. The pattern of association of age with sexual orientation differed between boys and girls. Conclusions. Our results highlight demographic differences between 2 sexual orientation dimensions, and their congruence, among 13- to 18-year-old adolescents. Future research is needed to better understand the implications of such differences, particularly in the realm of health and health disparities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. We investigated the modifying effect of state-level policies on the association between lesbian, gay, or bisexual status and the prevalence of psychiatric disorders. Methods. Data were from wave 2 of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC), a nationally representative study of noninstitutionalized US adults (N=34653). States were coded for policies extending protections against hate crimes and employment discrimination based on sexual orientation. Results. Compared with living in states with policies extending protections, living in states without these policies predicted a significantly stronger association between lesbian, gay, or bisexual status and psychiatric disorders in the past 12 months, including generalized anxiety disorder (F=3.87; df=2; P=.02), post-traumatic stress disorder (F=3.42; df =2; P=.04), and dysthymia (F=5.20; df =2; P=.02). Living in states with policies that did not extend protections also predicted a stronger relation between lesbian, gay, or bisexual status and psychiatric comorbidity (F=2.47; df =2; P=.04). Conclusions. State-level protective policies modify the effect of lesbian, gay, or bisexual status on psychiatric disorders. Policies that reduce discrimination against gays and lesbians are urgently needed to protect the health and well-being of this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The HIV/AIDS epidemic has exacted a devastating toll upon Black men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States, and there is a tremendous need to escalate HIV-prevention efforts for this population. The social context in which Black MSM experience the impact of racism and heterosexism strongly affects their risk for HIV infection; thus, HIV-prevention research focused on Black MSM should focus on contextual and structural factors. There is a pronounced lack of community-level HIV-intervention research for Black MSM, but effective preliminary strategies involve adapting existing effective models and tailoring them to the needs of Black MSM. Future research should develop new, innovative approaches, especially structural interventions, that are specifically targeted toward HIV prevention among Black MSM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. We compared Black West Indian immigrants' and US-born Blacks' sexual and drug-use risk behaviors and their beliefs related to using condoms and informing partners of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) to identify possible differences in risk. Methods. We drew data from the baseline assessment of a clinic-based intervention designed to increase partner STI notification. Results. Black West Indian men were less likely than were US-born Black men to report nonregular partners. There were no differences in condom use. US-born Black women were more likely than were Black West Indian women to be extremely confident that they could convince their regular partners to use condoms (odds ratio [OR] = 2.40; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.21, 4.76), whereas there were no differences between Black West Indian and US-born Black men on this measure (interaction P=.06). US-born Black women were more likely than were Black West Indian women to be extremely confident in their ability to discuss STI screening with their regular partners (OR = 1.89; 95% CI = 1.03, 3.47). Conclusions. Black West Indian women's lower levels of confidence that they can discuss STI screening with their regular partners and convince these partners to use condoms may increase their infection risk. Gender-sensitive interventions are warranted for Black West Indian immigrants, especially women. (Am J Public Health. 2008;98:2042-2050. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2006.106443) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe the emergence of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) health as a key area of study and practice for clinicians and public health professionals. We discuss the specific needs of LGBT populations on the basis of the most recent epidemiological and clinical investigations, methods for defining and measuring LGBT populations, and the barriers they face in obtaining appropriate care and service's. We then discuss how clinicians and public health professionalscan improve research methods, clinical outcomes, and service delivery for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. (Am J Public Health. 2008;98:989-995. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2007.127811) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which examined the homosexual behavior in the human male. Homosexuality is defined as sexual relations either overt or psychic between individuals of the same sex. It emphasizes the sameness of the two individuals who are involved in a sexual relation. The data in the study has found that at least 37 percent of the male population has some homosexual experience between the beginning of adolescence and old age. The data suggests that one male in three men have experienced homosexual activity.

We examined the prevalence and correlates of condom use in a community-based sample of unmarried heterosexual and gay/bisexual Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics (aged 20 to 40 years) in San Francisco (n = 1229). Only 9% of heterosexual males reported always using condoms, and fewer of those with multiple sexual partners (6%) reported always using condoms compared with those in monogamous relationships (12%). Much higher proportions of gay/bisexual men reported always using condoms (48%). Racial differences in condom use were observed only among women. Sexual communication and the sexual enjoyment value of condoms were consistent correlates of condom use across gender and sexual orientation while other condom-related beliefs were significant predictors of condom use only for men. In general, condom promotion programs should build sexual Communication skills, teach people how to enhance enjoyment with condoms, and reduce psychological barriers to condom acquisition and use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Homosexual and bisexual men with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) differ, and bisexual men play an important role in the sexual transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) to women. Methods. To describe AIDS in these groups, we examined AIDS cases reported nationally through June 1990. Results. Among 65 389 men who reported having had sex with men since 1977, 26% were bisexual. More Black (41%) and Hispanic men (31%) than White men (21%) reported bisexual behavior. Bisexual men were twice as likely to report intravenous drug use (20%) as were homosexual men (9%), regardless of race of ethnicity. Among 3555 women with heterosexually acquired AIDS, 11% reported sexual contact with a bisexual man and no other risk factor, although in some states approximately half reported such contact. In 1989, the AIDS rate due to sex with a bisexual man was three and five times higher among Hispanic and Black women, respectively, than among White women. Conclusions. Differences between bisexual and homosexual men with AIDS and the relative importance of AIDS in women due to sexual contact with bisexual men should be considered in the development of HIV prevention programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We report here a summary of the data obtained from two HIV-I antibody counseling and testing sites in Minneapolis-St. Paul for the first 48 months of operation (24,911 persons tested). The HIV-I antibody seroprevalence rate for all persons tested was 5 percent. The highest seroprevalence rates were in male homosexual/ bisexual intravenous drug users (23 percent) and homosexual/ bisexual men (13 percent). There was a significant decrease in the HIV-1 antibody seroprevalence rate among clients during the 48-month period from 14 percent in the first six months to 3 percent in the last SIX months. This decrease coincided with an increase in the number of low-risk female clients and low-risk heterosexual male clients, and a decrease in the number of homosexual/bisexual males participating in the programs. These findings suggest the need for development and implementation of other strategies to identify and reach persons at highest risk for HIV-I infection. (Am J Public Health 1990; 80:419-422.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The annual reported isolation rate of Shigella flexneri decreased from 1964 to 1973, but has remained constant since then at I per 100,000. Between 1975 and 1985, the median age of males from whom S. flexneri was isolated rose from 5 to 26 years. During this time, the isolation rate of S. flexneri rose more than five-fold among men, did not change in adult women, and decreased in children. By 1985, 23 per ¢ of reported S. flexneri isolates came from men aged 20-49. Increased male homosexual transmission of S. flexneri is a possible explanation for these findings. INSET: OTA Special Report: Biology, Medicine, and the Bill of Rights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Social and behavioral factors associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection were analyzed using cross-sectional data from homosexual and bisexual male clients of a Boston community health center. Partners from California, and a previous period of greater sexual activity (a "high period"), were independently associated with positive HIV antibody status, as were the frequency of receptive anogenital contact, both during the "high period" and during the last six months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The prevalence and incidence of infection by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been under study in a cohort of 1,034 single men recruited by area probability sampling from a six kilometer square area of San Francisco where the epidemic of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) has been most severe. Prevalence of infection among homosexual/bisexual study subjects increased from an estimated 22.8 per ¢ during the last half of 1982 to 48.6 per ¢ during the period July through December 1984. During three subsequent six month periods, prevalence remained stable at approximately 50 per ¢. Annual infection rates, measured by seroconversion among seronegative study subjects, decreased from an estimated 18.4 per ¢ per year from 1982 to 1984, to 5.4 and 3.1 per ¢ during the first and second halves of 1985, and to 4.2 per ¢ during the first six months of 1986. These declines were associated with reductions of 60 per ¢ or more in the prevalence of high-risk sexual practices associated with both acquiring and disseminating infection by the human immunodeficiency virus. (Am J Public Health 1987; 77:685-689.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the laws regarding sexual privacy and sexual practices in the U.S. The author argues that the laws on sodomy in which it is defined as crime against nature and other sexually related activities as major felonies. He points out the case of Michael Hardwick who was arrested and charged with the crime of sodomy for engaging in sexual activity with a consenting adult male in the bedroom of his own home. the federal district court held that Hardwick did have standing to pursue declaratory relief, but dismissed his complaint on its merits, holding that an earlier decision of the Supreme Court had implied that sodomy legislation was constitutional.

The article discusses professor Elizabeth Fee's career which integrated activism around sex, homosexuality and AIDS into her work. Topics include her experience in small-group settings such as women's groups and gay-lesbian groups during the late 1960's and 1970's, her opportunity to speak at the inaugural conference of the Gay Academic Union held in New York City in 1973, and her scholarly work on the history of sexually transmitted disease.