The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #64915

Scott H. Arrowood, MSW¹, Mark S. Friedman, PhD², and Anthony J. Silvestre, PhD, LSW¹. (1) Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, 3520 Fifth Avenue, Suite 400, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, 412-383-1776, arrowood@stophiv.pitt.edu, (2) Department of Child Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, 3811 O'Hara Street, Bellefield Tower, Third Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

Problem: Recent literature has suggested that a significant minority of HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM) still participate in high-risk activities creating the potential for secondary infections and transmission of HIV to partners. Methods: A review of relevant literature reporting on risk behavior, describing the various contexts of high-risk activity and discussing the implications for health care providers and their prevention efforts. As a supplement, focus groups and surveys are being conducted with MSM taken from a statewide prevention needs assessment of HIV-positive individuals from small cities and rural communities who receive care from an HIV primary care clinic and/or other AIDS service organization. Questions to be addressed include KABB, sources of prevention service and information, and the physician/provider’s role in prevention. Findings: Findings from the literature review will summarize methodologies and general findings on such issues as the role of disclosure and communication, the effect of retroviral therapies on lifestyle and perceptions, substance use, and the changing community norms on acceptable sex behavior and perceived severity of HIV disease. Focus group and survey findings: Report of risk attitudes and behaviors among a sample of HIV-positive MSM from small cities and rural communities; Summary of expressed concerns for prevention needs of HIV-positive MSM; and a Description of the prevention information and services available by type of service provider. Conclusions: Gaps in the literature will be discussed along with proposed areas of needed research and intervention.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this session participants will be able to:
• Summarize the major findings of current literature on prevention with HIV-positive MSM;
• Identify major factors contributing to continued high-risk behavior among HIV-positive MSM;
• Discuss implications for prevention efforts and the health care provider.

Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Gay Men

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.