Epidemiological Profile of Men Who Have Sex with Men: First Data about Male Sex Workers in Central African Republic (CAR)

Objectives: Sex work is not well documented among African men. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological profile of men who have sex with men (MSM) and eventually to determine the proportion of sex workers (SW) among them, as well as the proportion of MSM who have been victims of gender-based violence (GBV). Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study coordinated by the Direction de la Médecine du Travail was carried out at the headquarters of the association ALTERNATIVES in Bangui Bangui from July 1 to October 31, 2021. Consenting MSM present during the study period were systematically included. Sociodemographic variables, those relating to the future vision of the activity and to GBV were collected and analyzed using Epi-Info version 7 software. Results: Forty MSM with an average age of 23 years and mainly secondary education (75.0%) were included. The vast majority of MSM were unemployed (85.0%). 45.0% had been victims of GBV and wanted to stop working as an MSM (47.5%), and almost 2/3 (65.0%) would accept another income-generating activity in exchange for the MSM. Violence was sexual (32.5%), economic (22.5%), physical (20.0%), verbal (12.5%) and psychological (12.5%). Conclusion: The MSM were mainly young, poorly educated, unemployed, and almost half were victims of GBV. The desire to change MSM activity to another income-generating activity alongside that of MSM shows that many of them are SW, workers in the informal sector. This must be taken into account in prevention activities, even if the data needs to be confirmed on a much larger sample.

Demographic and Sexual Behavior Characteristics of Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) Registered in a Targeted Intervention (TI) Program in India

Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) contribute substantially to HIV prevalence in India. The targeted intervention (TI) program is the most important link between MSM and the public health system. Hence, we studied the demographic and sexual behavior characteristics of MSM registered in TI program in India. Methods: We used information maintained at TI sites under the program catering exclusively to MSM in India. Demographic characteristics and sexual behavior of MSM over the past two decades were also studied. Risk behaviors included type of partners, alcohol use, sexual acts per week, years of sex work and age at initiation of sex work. Bivariate analysis was carried out to understand the demographic determinants of sexual behavior. Results: In total, data of 6037 MSMs from 14 TI sites were analyzed. Of these 4655 (73.8%) were young adults (<35 years) and 2565 (40.8%) had completed their matriculation. More than half (55.4%) were married. Double-decker was identified as the most common sub-typology among MSM. Average age of initiation of sex was 23.0 years and average number of sexual acts per week was 6.8 (95% CI: 6.8 - 7.0). Irregular partners and alcohol use were observed in 30.5% and 52.8% of MSM respectively. Cohort analysis revealed a statistically significant declining trend in average age of initiation of sex over the past two decades. The sexual behavior of MSM varied significantly by employment status, education, marital status, state of residence, alcohol use and type of sex partner. Conclusion: MSMs registered with the TI program in India were mostly young, educated, and employed. Many MSM also had a history of heterosexual relationships, and thus had the potential of transmitting HIV infection to the otherwise low risk general population. This analysis supports the use of TI program data for understanding the demographic and sexual behavior characteristics of hard to reach and stigmatized population in society.

HIV阳性MSM的社会行为及首次同性性行为到阳性时间的影响因素分析

目的了解艾滋病病毒(HIV)阳性男男性行为者(MSM)的社会行为特征,分析首次同性性行为到阳性时间的影响因素。方法收集2007—2022年绵阳市疾病预防控制中心新确证并实施首次流行病学调查的阳性MSM资料,阳性时间的影响因素分析采用χ^(2)检验和Logistics回归模型。结果共收集有效资料457份,自认性取向成因属先天因素63.95%、后天因素36.05%,首次同性性行为性伴来源互联网60.54%、朋友等39.46%。首次同性性行为年龄平均23.95岁,发生阶段为在校学生44.64%、工作后55.36%。53.75%使用过rush poppers。阳性时间平均5.25年。多因素分析结果,职业学生/商业服务/无业(OR=1.868)、首次同性性行为发生在在校学生阶段(OR=1.555)者阳性时间短的可能更大,婚姻状况在婚及其他(OR=0.566)、固定性伴数≥3人(OR=0.553)、偶遇性伴数≥5人(OR=0.457)者阳性时间短的可能更小。结论阳性MSM多自认其性取向属先天因素,首次同性性行为的性伴来源互联网、发生在工作后和使用新型毒品较为普遍。阳性时间与婚姻状况、首次同性性行为发生阶段及性伴数量相关联。要针对性强化健康教育和行为干预。

Factors influencing HIV infection in men who have sex with men in China

To identify risk factors for HIV infection among men who have sex with men （MSM） and to provide a theoretical basis for prevention interventions. Between December 2011 and August 2012, a case-control study was conducted among MSM who underwent voluntary counselling and testing for HIV. Confirmed HIV-positive MSM were included in the case group, and HIV-negative MSM were included in the control group. Information on possible risk factors was collected by a survey questionnaire and a qualitative interview. The results of a conditional logistic regression showed that the following were influencing factors for HIV infection： average monthly income between 2001 and 3000 Yuan （odds ratio （0R）=6.341, 95% Ch 1.714-12.544）, only sometimes using condoms when having anal sex with men in the last 6 months （0R=7.601, 95% Ch 1.359-23.083）, having HIV-positive sex partners （0R=5.273, 95% Ch 1.572- 17.691）, rectal trauma with bleeding in the last 6 months （0R=2.947, 95% Ch 1.308-6.638）, not using condoms at last sexual encounter （OR-- 1.278, 95% Ch 1.012-5.595）, engaging in commercial sex （0R=5.925, 95% Ch 1.923-13.890） and having more than 16 sex partners in the last 6 months （0R=1.175, 95% Ch 1.021-1.353）. These seven factors were the risk factors of HIV infection （OR〉l）. However, having anal sex less than 10 times in the previous 1 month （OR=O.O02, 95% CI： 0.000-0.287） was a protective factor against HIV infection among MSM （OR〈l）, and insertive （0R=0.116, 95% Ch 0.000-0.236） （OR〈l） anal intercourse influenced HIV infection. Interventions should be targeted at MSM whose average monthly income is between 2001 and 3000 Yuan, and who engage in commercial sex. In addition, the importance of using condoms at every sexual encounter should be emphasised in health education, as should the treatment of rectal trauma with bleeding. Finally, MSM should decrease the number of sex partners and frequency of anal sex to decrease the rate of HIV infection.

Uptake of HIV Self-testing among Men Who have Sex with Men in Beijing, China： a Cross-sectional Study

Objective To examine HIV self-testing uptake and its determinates among men who have sex with men （MSM） in Beijing, China. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in Beijing, China in 2016. Participants were users of a popular Chinese gay networking application and had an unknown or negative HIV status. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine factors associated with HIV self-testing based on adjusted odds ratio （AOR） and 95% confidence interval （CI）. Results Among the 5,996 MSM included in the study, 2,383 （39.7%） reported to have used HIV self-testing kits. Willingness to use an HIV self-test kit in the future was expressed by 92% of the participants. High monthly income （AOR = 1.49; CI = 1.10-2.02; P = 0.010）, large number of male sex partners （≥2： AOR = 1.24; CI = 2.09-1.43; P = 0.002）, sexual activity with commercial male sex partners （〉 2： AOR = 1.94; CI = 1.34 -2.82; P = 0.001）, long-term drug use （AOR = 1.42; CI = 1.23-1.62; P 〈 0.001）, and long-term HIV voluntary counseling and testing （VCT） attendance （AOR = 3.62; CI = 3.11-4.22; P 〈 0.001） were all associated with increased odds of HIV self-testing uptake. Conclusion The nearly 40% rate of HIV self-testing uptake among MSM in our sample was high. In addition, an over 90% willingness to use kits in the future was encouraging. HIV self-testing could be an important solution to help China achieve the global target of having 90% of all people living with HIV diagnosed by 2020.

A survey of HIV infection and related high-risk factors among men who have sex with men in Suzhou,Jiangsu,China

A cross-sectional study using the snowball sampling method was conducted in May 2008 to investigate human immunodeficiency virus （HIV） infection status and related high risk factors among men who have sex with men （MSM） in Suzhou city of Jiangsu province. The researchers carried out a face-to-face questionnaire interview among MSM, and collected their blood samples to test for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases （STDs）. Among the 280 respondents, 91.1% had homosexual acts in the past 6 months and 87.5% had multiple homosex- ual partners; 46.4% had heterosexual sex in the past 6 months and 33.1% had multiple heterosexual partners. The rate of continued condom use was 44.3% in homosexual sex in the past 6 months, while the rate in heterosexual sex was 33.9%. Laboratory test results showed that the prevalences of HIV and syphilis were 7.1% （20/280） and 15.0% （42/280）, respectively, but no HCV-positive person was found. In the multivariate logistic regression model, subjects with a monthly income of more than RMB $ 1,000 （OR=4.83,95% CI=1.44-16.22）, subjects who often went to bars for sexual partners （OR=2.25, 95%CI=1.21-4.20）, and subjects who had more than one sexual partner in the past 6 months （OR=0.49, 95%CI=0.25-0.97） and had sex with fixed sexual partners in the past 6 months （OR=0.42, 95%CI=0.25-0.75） were significantly associated with the rate of continued condom use in homosexual sex in the past 6 months. Unprotected sex and multiple sexual partners were more common among MSM in Suzhou city; furthermore, the prevalences of HIV infection and syphilis were relatively high. HIV preventive measures should be designed to address these risk factors and control the spread of HIV among MSM.

Prevalence and risk factors of HIV and syphilis,and knowledge and risk behaviors related to HIV/AIDS among men who have sex with men in Chongqing,China

High HIV prevalence and incidence burdens have been reported in men who have sex with men（MSM）in Chongqing,China.We aimed to estimate the prevalence of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections（STIs）,to appraise the knowledge and risk behaviors related to HIV/AIDS among MSM,and to analyze the possible causes of deviation between behavior and knowledge to make better strategies.We recruited 617 MSM from February to July in 2008 by using a respondent-driven sampling（RDS） method in Chongqing,China.Through the collection of questionnaire-based data and biological testing results from all objects,we launched a crosssectional survey.STATA/SE was used for data analysis by frequency,ANOVA,rank sum test and logistic regression models.MSM with syphilis（OR=4.16,95%CI：2.35-7.33,P〈0.0001） were more likely to be HIV infected.Being a company employee（OR=3.64,95%CI：1.22-10.08,P〈0.0001） and having bought male for sex（OR=3.52,95%CI：1.10-11.32,P〈0.034） were associated with a higher probability of syphilis.MSM with younger age,higher education and greater monthly income had a higher mean knowledge score.MSM who had HIV testing had a higher mean knowledge score than those who never had.Students,venues for finding sex partners by Internet and homosexuals in MSM had a higher mean knowledge score compared to other occupations,venues for finding sex partners and sexual orientation.There is an urgent need for delivery of barrier and biomedical interventions with coordinated behavioral and structural strategies to improve the effect of HIV interventions among MSM.

Association of Bisphenol A Exposure with Circulating Sex Hormone Concentrations in Men and Postmenopausal Women

A total of 1 116 middle-aged and elderly men and 1 442 postmenopausal women were recruited in this study. Whether bisphenol A exposure was associated with circulating sex hormone concentrations was studied. Univariate analysis revealed that the urinary bisphenol A concentration was negatively correlated with the serum levels of luteinizing hormone （B=-0.061, P〈0.0001） and follicle-stimulating hormone （B=-0.086, P〈0.0001） in men, and with the serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone （B=-0.037, P=0.018） and sex hormone-binding globulin （B=-0.043, P=0.006） in women. However, no significant association was observed between the serum levels of urinary bisphenol A and circulating sex hormone after adjustment for the potential confounders.

Barriers and facilitators in Pre-exposure Prophylaxis(PrEP)use intention among Chinese homosexual men

Background:Despite strengthened efforts on human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)prevention and control,new HIV infections continue to increase among men who have sex with men(MSM)in China.Pre-exposure prophylaxis(PrEP),a highly effective HIV-prevention tool,has recently been included in China’s Action Plan of HIV Prevention and Control.To promote future PrEP implementation,this study aims to identify the barriers and facilitators in PrEP use intention among MSM in China.Methods:In 2018,a cross-sectional survey was conducted among 300 MSM in Nanjing,Jiangsu Province.Questions on demographics,sexual behavior(including a seven-item high-risk behavior index),PrEP use intention,PrEP-related awareness and accessibility,and a seven-item public HIV stigma scale were included in the questionnaire.Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with PrEP use intention.Results:Overall,44.67%of the participants had more than two male sexual partners and 5.56%had HIV-positive sexual partners.Only 57.00%had heard of PrEP and only four(1.33%)participants had used PrEP.However,75.34%expressed the willingness to use oral PrEP if its efficacy was assured.The beliefs that“PrEP can prevent HIV if taken as prescribed”(adjusted odds ratio(AOR)=4.84,P<0.001)and“PrEP can be scaled up in the community”(AOR=3.24,P<0.001)were positively associated with oral PrEP use intention.Concerns of side effects were negatively associated with oral PrEP use intention(AOR=0.32,P=0.006).Further,77.00%of the participants would choose injectable or implanted PrEP instead of oral PrEP.One of the PrEP stigma items,“Not certain if doctors can prescribe PrEP if I go to the clinic”was positively associated with the intention to use injectable or implanted PrEP(AOR=3.03).The items“Heard of PrEP”(AOR=2.74)and“PrEP can prevent HIV if taken as prescribed”(AOR=2.65)were also positively related to the intention to use injectable or implanted PrEP.The most common concerns regarding PrEP use were efficacy(44.67%)and side effects(38.67%).The most common reasons for using injectable and implanted PrEP were adherence(81.94%and 77.86%,respectively)and privacy concerns(56.48%and 55.00%,respectively).Affordable price and coverage by health insurance were the driving factors for PrEP use.Conclusion:Given the low level of awareness of PrEP-related information in China,it’s necessary to provide interventions for high-risk individuals and communities,in order to increase their awareness and knowledge of PrEP.Furthermore,additional alternatives to HIV prevention,such as long-acting injectable or implanted PrEP,should be investigated to reduce the risk of HIV infection in at-risk MSM.Even if this programme could be approved by the National Medical Products Administration of China and implemented,a supportive social environment for MSM is essential during its implementing.

The moderating impact of lifestyle factors on sex steroids, sexual activities and aging in Asian men

The present study sought to evaluate the relative associations of exercise, sleep and other lifestyle habits with aging, sex hormones, percent body fat （%BF） and sexual activities in men living in the community. A better understanding of this complex interrelationship is important in helping the formulation of modalities for a holistic approach to the management of aging men. The results showed that age is a major determinant for many physiological parameters, including sleep, hormonal and metabolic parameters, some lifestyle factors and sexual activities. Testosterone （T）, bioavailable testosterone （BloT） and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate （DHEAS） concentrations decreased with age, while estradiol （E2）, sex hormone-binding globulin （SHBG） and %BF increased with age. In addition, there exist intricate associations among hormonal and lifestyle factors, %BF and age. High-intensity exercise and longer duration of sleep were associated with higher concentrations of T and BloT. T was shown to be associated positively with men who were engaged in masturbation. DHEAS was associated with men wanting more sex and with good morning penile rigidity. Older Singaporean men tended to sleep for shorter duration, but exercised more intensely than younger men. Coital and masturbation frequencies decreased with age, and a significantly greater number of younger men were engaged in masturbation. Relationship between the partners is a key determinant of sexuality in men. It appears that T may have a limited, while dehydroepiandrosterone （DHEA） have a greater role than previously suggest, as a motivational signal for sexual function in men. Both biological and psychosocial factors interact with each other to influence sexual functions in men. Hence, a biopsychosocial approach may be more appropriate for a more lasting resolution to sexual dysfunctions in men.

Perceptions of Reducing HIV-Preventive Behaviors among Men Who Have Sex with Men Living with HIV in Japan

Sexual health and behavior among HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM) have attracted attention in Japan and elsewhere. It has been reported that perceptions about sex are one factor leading to a reduction in HIV-preventive behaviors. This study investigated types of perceptions, termed self-talk, which allow HIV-positive Japanese MSM to permit themselves to participate in unprotected anal intercourse (UAI). A package of internet surveys for MSM including 20 items assessing self-talk on UAI and condom usage in anal intercourse was administered in 2014. Data from 479 HIV-positive Japanese MSM were analyzed. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted to reveal the factor structure of the self-talk. In addition, using the Kruskal-Wallis test, we examined the relationship between the types of self-talk and the tendency to have UAI. Factor analysis of 20 items assessing self-talk on UAI produced four dimensions: “Diversion/Desire for Stimulation,” “Optimism/Defiant Attitude,” “Denial of Concern of Transmitting,” and “Concern about Relationships.” The score of the subscale “Diversion/Desire for Stimulation” was significantly higher than the other three subscales. It was shown that there was a tendency for the self-talk assessed to be associated with the UAI frequency. The types of perceptions permitting UAI and the psychological stress of being an HIV-positive MSM in Japan were discussed. This study was the first to reveal the factorial structure of perceptions in reducing HIV-preventive behaviors among HIV-positive MSM in Japan. We found positive associations between certain types of self-talk and risky sexual behaviors. We provided recommendations for psychosocial support and HIV risk-reduction intervention for HIV-positive MSM.

Acceptance to Use Daily Oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) as an HIV Prevention Method and Ability to Pay for PrEP among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV in Vietnam. Regardless of international and national agencies’ efforts, the HIV epidemic in MSM has been increasing in recent years. Novel and evidence-based HIV antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) maybe needed to combat the HIV epidemic among this population in Vietnam. This study aims to identify how MSM accept the use of PrEP as an HIV prevention method and their ability to pay for it. Method: This is a cross-sectional study of 373 MSM seeking HIV testing in a community-based HIV clinic in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from January to April 2016. Potential participants were briefly informed about ethical considerations, screened for eligibility, and signed an informed consent form when selected. Face-to-face interviews were conducted by the clinic’s staff. Descriptive and analytical analysis was performed by STATA 13.0. Results: Of 373 participants, only 92 men (24.7%) reported having known about PrEP. Out of 360 men who were questioned about their acceptance of PrEP as an HIV prevention method, 274 (76.1%) embraced the use of PrEP. The median maximum affordable monthly PrEP cost was one million Vietnam Dong (VND) (equivalent to US$43) and the median average affordable monthly PrEP cost was 0.5 million VND (approximately $21.7). The majority of men (68.8%) could afford an average of less than $43 a month for PrEP. Conclusion: There is a relatively high level of PrEP acceptance among MSM in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. To increase PrEP acceptance, raising awareness and understanding of PrEP is recommended. To expand PrEP interventions in Vietnam, the target population’s ability to pay should be a key focus.

Casual Sex, Sex Work and Unprotected Sex among Men Who Have Sex with Men in the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Clinical Trial —North-West Region of Tshwane, South Africa

Background: The gap in the understanding of the context of the sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and risky behaviours among men who have sex with men (MSM) could lead to the development and implementation of inappropriate interventions, which could exacerbate the rapid spread of STIs, especially HIV, among MSM. The aim of the study was to qualitatively assess the understanding of the STIs and the risky sexual behaviours of men who have sex with men in the North-West region of Tshwane. Methods: An exploratory qualitative design was employed to assess the STIs and the risky sexual behaviour of the MSM population. The study participants were enrolled in an HPV clinical trial at MECRU, which is a clinical research unit at the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University. Data collection occurred from September 2016 to May 2017. A convenience sampling method was used and n = 30 participants were selected. Face-to-face in-depth interviews were conducted on MSM 18 years and older, using a semi-structured interview guide. Thematic content analysis was used for data analysis, using NVivo version 10 software. Results: The mean age of the sample was 26 years, and the age range was 18 to 44 years. All were unmarried, and all of them came from townships, rural villages and informal settlements in the vicinity of the clinical research unit. The high-risk behaviours noted among the majority of the MSM in this study were having multiple sexual partners and exchanging partners, alcohol abuse, inconsistent condom-use, having unprotected anal sex, and having transactional sex. There was a high level of knowledge of STIs in the heterosexual population with poor understanding of STIs affecting MSM through anal sex. Most of the MSM played a female or bottom role, which made them vulnerable because they could not successfully negotiate condom use, and they reported that they sometimes accepted gifts or money in exchange for anal sex. Conclusion: The study concludes that the MSM in this study had casual sex, and are involved in sex work without practising safe sex. There is a need for health promotion on STIs and risky behaviours among MSM in communities as well as in health facilities for MSM in the North-West region of Tshwane.

Effectiveness of a Training Program for Improving Public Health Nurses’ Attitudes and Confidence in Dealing with Men Who Have Sex with Men

Objective: This study examined the effect of an educational intervention on public health nurses’ attitudes and confidence in dealing with men who have sex with men (MSM). In Japan, HIV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact between men, and free HIV testing and counseling are provided by public health nurses. However, because of a lack of education, public health nurses do not often recognize the existence of MSM in daily life. Thus, improving public health nurses’ understanding of MSM is crucial. Methods: This study used a quasi-experimental design to examine public health nurses’ homophobia, confidence in dealing with MSM, and low awareness of MSM in daily life at pre-test, post-test, and 1 and 3 months follow-ups. The intervention comprised a 3-hour training session conducted between November 2012 and September 2013 in the Kinki region. Results: A total of 124 public health nurses participated in the training, 117 of which were allocated to the intervention group;182 public health nurses who did not participate in the training session were allocated to a control group. Homophobia scores had significantly decreased at post-test, and remained at that low level by the follow-up at 3 months (pre-test to post-test;p = 0.00, post-test to 1 month;p = 0.83, 1 month to 3 months;p = 0.64, pre-test to 3 months;p = 0.00). Confidence in dealing with MSM and recognition of MSM had significantly increased by post-test;these were also maintained by the follow-up at 3 months (pre-test to post-test;p = 0.0, post-test to 1month;p = 0.18, 1 to 3 months;p = 0.44, pre-test to 3 months;p = 0.0). Discussion: While the three-hour training session was short, it was effective for improving attitudes toward MSM and building confidence in dealing with them.

Spread of human immunodeficiency virus 1 among men who have sex with men is emerging as a genuine social concern and affecting the general populace- case reports from Eastern India

Human immunodeficiency virus(HIV) infection among men who have sex with men(MSM) has increased to a drastic proportion throughout India in the last couple of years due to a lack of productive identification and management framework. In apprehension of social disgrace these men attempt to live a normal hetero conjugal life and, in the process, act as a bridge in spreading the virus to their women partners. In this case report we have highlighted two cases which clearly distinguished the adequacy of HIV treatment among MSM when they are diagnosed during early or late phases of infection. An intensive and ample counseling to comprehend the psychology and sexual behavior of these men was found to be critically important in both the cases. Our study, which is actually the first of its kind, recorded and documented evidence of HIV infected MSM from Eastern India and renders a ray of hope among this marginally isolated group to comprehend the challenges and health risks faced by the MSM population. It also provides a format for the medical practitioners here in managing and treating related cases.

Chemsex and its risk factors associated with human immunodeficiency virus among men who have sex with men in Hong Kong

We were intrigued by Hanum et al,who published a study on the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)in homosexual,bisexual,and other men who have sex with men at sexual health clinics in England and the relationship between baseline variables and future HIV occurrence.Chemically-enhanced sexual experience(chemsex)is becoming a global phenomenon.There are increasing medical and academic concerns about chemsex,where substances are used to boost sexual satisfaction,which is prevalent in groups,especially among homosexuals.Lesbians,gays,bisexuals,transgenders,and queers have become increasingly visible,valued,and committed community.However,chemsex requires urgent attention.

Exploring the Perspectives of Healthcare Providers on Providing HIV Prevention and Treatment Services for Key Populations in Rwanda: A Qualitative Study

Background: The overall HIV prevalence and incidence in Rwanda have decreased significantly in the past decade. However, opposite trends are seen among key populations (KP). The HIV prevalence among sex workers is as high as 51% and continues to rise. While the HIV prevalence among KP remains high, their adherence to treatment is low. Healthcare providers play a vital role in KP’s access and adherence to HIV treatment. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of healthcare providers on providing HIV services to key populations in Rwanda. Methods: An exploratory qualitative study was conducted with nurses, doctors, social workers, and psychologists who provide HIV services to KP in public health facilities in Rwanda. In-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. All data were analyzed thematically using Dedoose. Results: Interviews were conducted with 18 healthcare providers. Three overarching themes emerged from the interviews: healthcare providers’ intrinsic feelings affect the ways they provide HIV services to key populations, key populations face a multitude of challenges related to accessing treatment and preventing the spread of HIV, and a more comprehensive and sensitive approach should be used to improve HIV services for key populations. Conclusion: Healthcare providers expressed difficulties in providing services to key populations and identified a lack of adherence to treatment and prevention guidelines, structural barriers, KP’s lack of trust in the healthcare system, and the discrimination and abuse KP face as challenges to effective HIV prevention and treatment. More comprehensive services including clinical, financial, and psychosocial support from trusted sources are needed. Some important policy changes are essential to facilitate access to HIV services for KP.

行为干预降低MSM人群HIV感染风险的系统评价再评价

目的 对行为干预措施降低男男性行为者(MSM)HIV感染风险的系统评价再评价。方法 计算机检索中国知网、中国生物医学数据库、万方、维普、JBI、The Cochrane Library、PubMed、Web of Science、CINAHL、EMbase数据库中有关行为干预降低MSM人群HIV感染风险的系统评价,检索时限为建库至2022年7月。由2名研究人员独立进行文献筛选、资料提取,使用系统评价评价工具(AMSTAR-2)和GRADE对纳入研究的方法学质量和证据级别进行评价。结果 共纳入13篇系统评价,包括7种干预措施、15条证据。系统评价结果显示,1篇质量等级为高,2篇质量等级为中,2篇质量等级为低,8篇等级为极低。分析结果显示,行为干预能够有效降低MSM人群HIV感染风险,干预措施可组合使用。结论 通信技术结合个人、小组、社区层面的综合干预措施可降低MSM人群的HIV感染风险,然而目前的证据尚未说明有效的效应量。未来需要更高质量的研究对行为干预的有效性进行验证和说明,以期提供更可靠的证据。

艾滋病暴露前预防用药技术推广应用的伦理困境及对策

暴露前预防用药是近年来推出的预防艾滋病的新技术手段,其有效性和安全性均得到了验证,但目前目标人群的使用率仍然较低。对该技术推广过程中的伦理困境,包括个人的健康行为责任与社会义务、社会歧视和污名化、卫生政策和经济负担、服务方式的可及性、使用合理性要求与耐药性隐忧、工作指南的权威性等问题进行辨析,并在增强目标人群的健康观念、探索广泛覆盖的服务网络、保障使用者权益、多元化的支付体系建设、全面权威应用指南的出台等方面提出对策建议,以更好地发挥暴露前预防用药在艾滋病防治工作中的作用。

七例猴痘临床特征分析

对上海市浦东新区人民医院2023年7~12月收治的7例猴痘患者临床症状及实验室检查等资料进行分析。7例患者皮疹部位和咽拭子标本猴痘病毒核酸检测阳性。7例猴痘患者均为MSM人群,年龄26~41岁;发病前21天内均有男男性行为史;6例患者首发部位为阴阜或生殖器区域,1例患者首发部位为口周及肛周;6例出现发热;6例伴有其他性传播疾病;病例发现方式均为主动就诊。