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Current HIV/AIDS Reports

01-03-2014 | The Science of Prevention (SC Kalichman, Section Editor)

Social Networks, Sexual Networks and HIV Risk in Men Who Have Sex with Men

Published in: Current HIV/AIDS Reports | Issue 1/2014

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Abstract

Worldwide, men who have sex with men (MSM) remain one of the most HIV-vulnerable community populations. A global public health priority is developing new methods of reaching MSM, understanding HIV transmission patterns, and intervening to reduce their risk. Increased attention is being given to the role that MSM networks play in HIV epidemiology. This review of MSM network research studies demonstrates that: (1) Members of the same social network often share similar norms, attitudes, and HIV risk behavior levels; (2) Network interventions are feasible and powerful for reducing unprotected sex and potentially for increasing HIV testing uptake; (3) HIV vulnerability among African American MSM increases when an individual enters a high-risk sexual network characterized by high density and racial homogeneity; and (4) Networks are primary sources of social support for MSM, particularly for those living with HIV, with greater support predicting higher care uptake and adherence.
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Metadata
Title
Social Networks, Sexual Networks and HIV Risk in Men Who Have Sex with Men
Publication date
01-03-2014
Published in
Current HIV/AIDS Reports / Issue 1/2014
Print ISSN: 1548-3568
Electronic ISSN: 1548-3576
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11904-013-0194-4

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