Exploring HIV Prevention Communication and HIV Testing Among Black MSM in New York City: From Pilot Study to Major Study

In early 2006, the Center for HIV Educational Studies and Training (CHEST) of the City University of New York and Gay Men of African Descent (GMAD) embarked on a pilot study to explore barriers and facilitators to HIV testing among Black men who have sex with men (MSM) in New York City. In the study sample (n=98), over 90% had been tested for HIV, and 66% preferred HIV testing at a clinic or private doctor. HIV risk behaviors and personalized stigma about sexual identity were marginally related (p < .10). Data collected from 3 focus groups with a subsample revealed concerns around stigma, gay identity/sexuality, fear of disclosure, and personal responsibility, among others. The investigators utilized study results to inform the development of a larger study using a sample of 300 New York City-based Black men who have sex with men (MSM) and other MSM in their social networks (ages 18-64). Funding was recently granted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention under their Minority HIV/AIDS Research Initiative (MARI) to conduct a 4-year cross-sectional, formative research study that will 1) determine content and contexts of messages being disseminated about HIV prevention strategies and HIV testing among adult NYC-based BMSM and their social networks and 2) assess the relation between interpersonal HIV prevention communication and HIV testing among study participants. Study results will facilitate a better understanding about the specific messages being conveyed about HIV prevention and HIV testing between Black MSM, their friends, peers, and sexual partners.