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ABSTRACT
Objectives: The objective of this study was to examine the levels and correlates of homosexual stigma among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Hanoi, Vietnam. Methods: A cross-sectional study design using a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) method was conducted in 2011 to collect data from 451 MSM in Hanoi, Vietnam. A cross-validation technique and factor analysis were used to refine the constructs of a homosexual stigma scale. Data weighted to adjust for the RDS design were evaluated to estimate the population-based prevalence of homosexual stigma, depression, drug and alcohol use, multiple sexual partners, and unprotected sex. Weighted logistic regression was used to determine demographic, psychosocial, and behavioral predictors of three forms of homosexuality-related stigma. Results: Enacted homosexual stigma was significantly linked to place of birth (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.58; 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.36, 0.95]), self-reported sexual identity (AOR = 0.63; 95% CI [0.41, 0.98]), multiple sexual partners (AOR = 2.24; 95% CI [1.21, 4.14]), and unprotected sex (AOR = 2.83; 95% CI [1.64, 4.87]). High levels of self-homosexual stigma were reported and were significantly associated with being married/divorced/separated (AOR = 2.49; 95% CI [1.02, 6.09]), being in a monogamous sexual relationship (AOR = 0.59; 95% CI [0.36, 0.98]), depression (AOR = 2.21; 95% CI [1.21, 4.06], and AOR = 3.13; 95% CI [1.76, 5.27]). Conclusions: The study presents the evidence for understanding the factors contributing to different forms of homosexual stigma and provides important evidence for evidence-based intervention development for stigma reduction targeting MSM in Vietnam.
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