Effects of a comprehensive community-based prevention program for MSM in one city in China

Background: Until recently China has been especially inhospitable to men who have sexual relationships with other men or identify as gay. It has recently begun active, open HIV/AIDS prevention programs. This study evaluated the effects of a three-year community-based HIV/AIDS prevention program directed at MSM in a major city in southern China.

Methods: The program was community-based and comprehensive including hot line consultation, outreach services, peer education, IEC material distribution, VCT and condom availability. Service sites included public parks, public bathrooms, gay bars, bath houses and gay social networks. Three annual surveys of the target population gathered data on knowledge and behavior changes directly related to the community program objectives. The trajectory of availability of community-based programs was recorded, as was the program exposure of the target audience.

Results: Among respondents to the three annual cross sectional surveys, correct knowledge scores about HIV-AIDS risks increased with the degree of program exposure as did the use of VCT services and condoms. Condom use rates varied depending on the situation. During the three-years a significant component of the program was directed at increasing acceptance and understanding of the Gay/MSM community.

Conclusion: This project illustrates the benefits of a broad-based community prevention program on MSM risk factors, highlights the importance of clear program objectives and careful data collection to document effects, and the importance of involving the MSM community in planning and conducting the program.