AEGiS-14IAC: Confronting challenges of prevention outreach to non-gay identified MSM of color.

14th International AIDS Conference

Barcelona, Spain - July 7-12, 2002

Confronting challenges of prevention outreach to non-gay identified MSM of color.

Int Conf AIDS 2002 Jul 7-12; 14:(abstract no.. TuOrE1242)

Wheeler DP, Stackhouse W, Larson B, Dacus J, Jones KT
Hunter College School of Social Work, New York, United States

BACKGROUND: Recent epidemiologic data suggests that the rate of HIV infection among African-American MSM is as high as 33% in some geographic areas of the US. This infection rate is contrasted to the lower seroprevalence among White (US) MSMs. To-date definitive and re-solvable explanations have proven elusive. Further complicating this is the difficulty many studies have in identifying, recruiting and retaining African-American MSM, especially those who do not identify as gay. The author will discuss findings from his study that examined challenges and barriers to reaching this population.

METHODS: To examine these issues, the investigator selected a qualitative approach. Using focus groups and individual interviews, the investigator collected narrative and demographic data from 24 non-gay identified African-American MSM. A semi-structured protocol was used to elicit information. Sessions were taped and the recordings transcribed for analysis.

RESULTS: Transcribed data were reviewed for completeness and edited accordingly. The tape recordings and investigators notes were used to "clean" the transcripts. Transcripts were then read for major thematic content. Branching themes and derivatives were identified and codified. Analysis revealed major findings in the areas of: views on homosexuality and labeling; sexual behaviors and risk taking; initiation of same gender sexual experiences; construction of the "sexual self", and HIV prevention.

CONCLUSIONS: Findings from this study suggest African-American non-gay identified MSM can be identified and recruited into prevention efforts. The men's narratives suggest that challenges to reaching and working with them include: the degree to which self-disclosure is required for service engagement; addressing the compartmentalization of sexuality; addressing historical and sociological aspects of their situation; and providing time to facilitate relationship development as an integral element.

Keywords: AEGIS, Homosexuality, Male, Sex Behavior, Risk-Taking, HIV Infections, African Americans, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Interviews, Focus Groups, Seroepidemiologic Studies, Human, Male, prevention & control

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