Recruitment strategies for reaching non-gay identified African American MSM for HIV prevention and outreach

APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Jacqueline McCright, MPH, San Jose State University Foundation, 210 N. Fourth St 4th floor, San Jose, CA 95112, 415-571-1465, jtmcc9@yahoo.com and Edward Mamary, DrPH, MS, Health Science Department, San Jose State University, One Washington Square, San Jose, CA 95192.

Background: Non-gay identified (NGI) African American men who have sex with men (MSM) have been difficult to reach through traditional HIV prevention efforts. African American MSM are at high risk for HIV and those who are NGI are at even higher risk, due to a host of factors that include denial and the need to remain private about their sexuality and lack of access to culturally appropriate HIV prevention messages and services. Innovative strategies are necessary to reach this population in an effective manner. Methods: A comprehensive recruitment strategy was created (Internet, venue-based outreach, newspaper ads, flyers, referrals from key stakeholders and word of mouth) to reach African American NGI MSM to conduct 25 in-depth interviews. Recruitment staff received hands-on outreach training in the field and on the Internet. This project was informed by epidemiological data, qualitative information from key informants, and an advisory committee comprised of African American men from local HIV prevention agencies. The goal of this project is to inform programs related to HIV prevention and outreach on how to reach African American NGI MSM. Results: The project was successful in recruiting a diverse sample of 25 African American NGI MSM in terms of HIV status, age, involvement with a male and/or female partner, education, parenthood, history of incarceration and employment status. Conclusion: A thorough recruitment strategy and a non-judgmental, sex positive, holistic approach are essential when exploring various aspects of African American NGI MSM beyond their sexual behavior for HIV prevention programs and outreach.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to

1.Identify the basic steps necessary to develop an effective strategy for recruiting non-gay identified African American men to participate in HIV prevention research.
2.Recognize the importance of using a holistic approach in recruiting NGI African American MSM.
3.List three strategies for recruiting a diverse sample of NGI MSM African American men.

Keywords: African American, Community Outreach

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation

African-American MSM and HIV/AIDS: New Understandings and Innovative Interventions

The 134th Annual Meeting & Exposition (November 4-8, 2006) of APHA