Health disparities in access to health care for HIV infection, substance abuse, and mental health among Latino men who have sex with men in a U.S.–Mexico Border City

Abstract

A cross-sectional study among 150 community-dwelling Latino men who have sex with men (MSM) in a U.S.–Mexico border city was conducted to describe health disparities in access to care for HIV infection, substance use/abuse, and mental health. Data were collected in 2013 and 2014. Median age of participants was 26 years, and the majority of participants identified as a sexual minority and born in the United States. Half did not have health insurance and reported suicidal ideation. One-eighth reported living with HIV. Most common substances reported were alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana. Clinicians who provide care for Latino MSM should be aware of intersecting comorbidities.

Keywords:

• Health disparities
• HIV/AIDS
• mental health
• people of color
• substance abuse

Additional information

Funding

The present research was financially supported by The University of Texas at El Paso, School of Nursing, Dean’s Office.