HIV risk among bisexually and homosexually active racially diverse young men

We addressed gaps in current HIV prevention research by examining the differences between 2 groups of young men: men who have sex with men only (MSM/O) and men who have sex with men and women (MSM/W). We examined patterns and correlates of sexual risk, and considered how race/ethnicity may affect these relationships.

Cross-sectional self-report data were collected from a racially diverse sample of 10,295 young MSM from 1999 to 2002. The sample comprised data from 13 urban locations across the US.

MSM/W reported less unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) than MSM/O, despite reporting less exposure to HIV prevention interventions, lower social support, and less awareness of antiretroviral therapies. African American men were more likely to be MSM/W and less likely to report UAI. Ever getting an HIV test was associated with less UAI only among African American participants (MSM/W or MSM/O) in racial/ethnic group-specific analyses.

HIV prevention interventions for MSM should address differences between MSM/W and MSM/O. An important component of HIV prevention efforts designed for African American MSM/W and MSM/O should be HIV testing.