Correlates of concurrency among black heterosexual men

Background: While there is increasing empirical evidence that engaging in concurrent sexual partnerships is an important risk factor for HIV/STD acquisition and transmission, there is scant data describing the prevalence and correlates of sexual concurrency in young adult Black men. Methods: The purpose of the current study is to identify the prevalence and correlates of sexual concurrency among a community-recruited sample of Black heterosexual men ages 18 to 29. Participants completed an ACASI survey assessing sociodemographics, psychosocial factors, substance use, sexual behaviors, and STDs and provided a urine specimen for STD testing. Data analyses included independent t-tests and chi-square analyses to identify differences between men reporting no sexual concurrency versus those reporting sexual concurrency and layered chi-square analyses to explore interactions between variables significantly differentiating between the two groups of men. Results: More than two-thirds of the sample reported sexual concurrency. Men reporting sexual concurrency were less likely to graduate high school and more likely to engage in hazardous drinking. The interaction between education and hazardous drinking was marginally significant in distinguishing the men who reported sexual concurrency. Conclusions: HIV/STD risk reduction programs for young adult Black heterosexual men should address how sexual concurrency, alcohol, and substance use increase their risk for HIV/STD acquisition. Specifically, responsible drinking among Black men may need to be addressed, including the impact of problem drinking on risky sexual behavior. Additionally, prevention efforts should address the role of sexual concurrency in young men's lives and emphasize the potential health risk associated with concurrent sexual partnerships.