Factors Associated with HIV-Testing History among Black Men Who Have Sex with Men (BMSM) in Los Angeles County

Abstract

Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) are disproportionately affected with HIV, and nearly half are unaware of their status. Those unaware of their status are more likely to engage in risky behavior; thus, HIV-testing uptake is crucial. This study explored correlates of past-two-year HIV-testing history. BMSM (n = 102) completed self-administered questionnaires. Fisher exact test indicated that BMSM at clubs/bars and Gay Pride events had higher rates of being tested within the past two years (86%–65%) than did participants who responded to online advertisements (44%, p < .001). Among those untested for HIV, slightly half reported receptive anal sex without a condom (48%, p = .033), used the Internet seeking sex (54%, p < .001), low HIV knowledge (52%, p = .005), and less education. Literacy and tailored online interventions might be worth considering to increase HIV-testing uptake.

Keywords:

• HIV/AIDS
• HIV testing
• MSM
• risk factors

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The research reported in this publication was supported by the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number P20MD003942. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.