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Abstract #153755

Daniel E. Siconolfi, BA, Center for Health, Identity, Behavior, and Prevention Studies (CHIBPS), New York University, 726 Broadway, Suite 525, New York, NY 10003, 2129989024, des245@nyu.edu and Perry N. Halkitis, PhD, Director, Center for Health, Identity, Behavior, and Prevention Studies (CHIBPS), New York University, 82 Washington Square East, Pless Building 553, New York, NY 10003.

Background: Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) are considered a high-risk group for hepatitis A (HAV) and hepatitis B (HBV). However, a significant number of MSM remain unvaccinated. Methods: Data were drawn from a sample of 311 MSM in New York City. Participants responded to 2 questions assessing HAV and HBV vaccination. Vaccination was examined, using bivariate analysis, for correlations with key demographics. Results: 69% and 70% reported vaccination against HAV and HBV, respectively, and these vaccinations were highly correlated. Younger men, and men who were HIV positive, reported higher vaccination rates. Those with regular access to healthcare were more likely to be vaccinated, however, the venue utilized (private doctor, HMO, public clinic, hospital/ED) was unrelated to vaccination status. Men who were unsure of their HIV status or had not received a recent sexual health checkup (SHC) were less likely to be vaccinated, and whether men had a recent SHC was related to their source of healthcare: 70% of men with private care, 69% utilizing public clinics, 64% utilizing an HMO, and only 25% utilizing an ED had a recent SHC. Conclusion: Findings indicate that a subset of men who are unsure of their HIV status may also be going without critical sexual health services. There is also a need for increased vigilance on behalf of providers, as at least one-third of men with regular access to healthcare in this sample remain unvaccinated.

Learning Objectives:

• Articulate the key correlates of hepatitis A and B vaccination in an urban sample of MSM.
• Recognize venues for increased availability of sexual health exams and hepatitis vaccination.
• Identify men who may be missing crucial sexual health interventions, including hepatitis vaccination, sexual health screenings, and HIV testing.

Keywords: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No
Any institutionally-contracted trials related to this submission?

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.