Targeted Expansion Project for Outreach and Treatment II (TEPOT-II) for Asian and Pacific Islander (API) men who have sex with men (MSM)

Background: TEPOT-II is a community-based participatory intervention project targeting high risk APIMSM in San Francisco and Alameda County in order to reduce their substance abuse and HIV risk behaviors. TEPOT-II was developed in response to a steady increase in HIV incidence and high prevalence of substance abuse among APIMSM.

Methods: As of January 2012, 179 APIMSM have enrolled in TEPOT-II. Clients were recruited through community outreach and online. Health Educators were trained for the motivational interviewing techniques to reduce substance abuse and HIV risk behaviors addressing specific issues among APIMSM (e.g., coming out and relationship with family). A curriculum was developed to help Health Educators lead clients through the stages of change. Clients were given the choice of either enrolling in the Brief Intervention (two 1.5-hour individual sessions) or the Motivational Enhancement Intervention (four 1.5-hour individual sessions). Clients were interviewed at the baseline, exit, and 6-month follow-up. Clients who abuse drugs are strongly encouraged to enroll in programs at a collaborating mental health treatment agency.

Results: Internet-based recruitment is the most efficient way to reach and recruit the targeted APIMSM. Continual contact with clients through emails increases the retention of participants. Health Educators' intervention sessions must be closely monitored by a clinical supervisor to ensure fidelity. Preliminary results showed that clients are benefitted and connected to the community through participating in TEPOT-II.

Conclusions: Alcohol use must be addressed in relation to risky sexual behaviors. We need to disseminate evidence-based efficacious intervention programs (e.g., Brief Intervention) for APIMSM