Cruising Venues as a Context for HIV Risky Behavior Among Men Who Have Sex With Men

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2017

Authors

Gama, A (Author) Other; Abecasis, A (Author) Other; Pingarilho, M (Author) Other; Mendo, L (Author) Other; Martins, MO (Author) Other; Barros H (Author) FMUP; Dias, S (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Archives of Sexual Behavior

Vol. 46 No. 8

Pages: 1061-1068

ISSN: 0004-0002

Publisher: Springer Nature

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 18 Citations

Scopus - 17 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00K-9XT

DOI: 10.1007/s10508-016-0707-5

Abstract (EN): We examined differences in sexual risk behaviors, HIV prevalence, and demographic characteristics between men who have sex with men (MSM) who visit different types of venues to meet sexual partners, and identified correlates of high-risk behaviors. A cross-sectional behavioral survey was conducted with a venue-based sample of 1011 MSM in Portugal. Overall, 36.3 % of MSM usually visit cruising venues to meet sexual partners (63.7 % only visit social gay venues). Cruising venues' visitors reported higher HIV prevalence (14.6 % [95 % CI 11-18 %] vs. 5.5 % [95 % CI 4-7 %]). Visiting cruising venues was more likely among those older, reporting high number of male sexual partners, group sex, and unprotected anal sex with a partner whose HIV status was unknown. Cruising venues play an important role in increasing risk of HIV transmission among MSM who frequent them. Venue-focused behavioral interventions that promote healthy sexual behaviors are needed.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 8