A community needs assessment to inform HIV and Substance Abuse Prevention for black and Latino young men who have sex with men in New York City

Background: A community needs assessment was conducted to inform the development of an HIV and substance abuse prevention program for young men of color who have sex with men (YMSMOC)—particularly blacks and Latinos—who are disproportionately impacted by HIV in New York City (NYC).

Methods: The community needs assessment was guided by three aims: 1) to identify neighborhoods statistically associated with HIV infection among YMSMOC using data from the NYC health department; 2) to identify risk and protective factors for HIV infection and; 3) to identify gaps in services for YMSMOC by conducting focus groups and interviews with YMSMOC and providers who work with YMSMOC.

Results: HIV infections among YMSMOC in NYC are concentrated in Brooklyn (31%) and Queens (26%). YMSMOC are more likely than other groups of YMSM to be HIV-infected and unaware of their diagnosis. Social networks, particularly patterns of sexual mixing, may also influence HIV infection rates among YMSMOC. Peer norms that favor condom use may function as a protective factor against risk behavior among YMSMOC. Providers emphasized the need for mental health and substance use services for YMSMOC, and services for YMSMOC aging out of the child welfare system.

Conclusions: HIV testing should be a routine component of this program. Prevention should address issues of partner choice and communication around HIV status, in addition to the mental health and substance use needs of YMSMOC. Outreach efforts should focus on Brooklyn and Queens, in collaboration with other community agencies.