Challenges of Immigration for Latino Gay Men in the Realm for HIV

Latino gay and bisexual men are disproportionately impacted by HIV as they represent 72% of new infections among Latino men and 19% of all MSM. Latino immigrants are particularly at risk. The National Latino Gay Men's Study (NLGMS), a nine-month qualitative study conducted throughout the US in traditional and emerging areas, explored issues pertaining to the growing HIV epidemic among this increasingly diverse and dispersed population. The NLGMS documents immigration-related challenges associated with providing HIV prevention, care and treatment services from the perspectives of consumers, service providers and health department officials. In focus group interviews, the issue of immigration was commonly identified as a significant challenge faced by Latino Gay Men. It was frequently reported that gay immigrants left their countries of origin due to persecution encountered as a result of their sexual orientation. However, the conditions of living as an illegal immigrant in the U.S. generated fear and isolation for many. In particular, study participants noted a)institutional isolation due to fear, shame and lack of trust; b) limited information and difficulties navigating health and social services and c)stigma associated with managing multiple clandestine identities in socially hostile environments. Study respondents also pointed to local anti-immigrant sentiment, state-level policy changes and the national immigration debate as barriers to testing, prevention and adherence to medical care and treatment. Despite the recognized challenge that immigration posed for providers and health department officials, limited strategies were in place to appropriately meet the needs of Latino Gay Men. Policy and practical implications are considered.