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Understanding the high prevalence of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections among socioeconomically vulnerable men who have sex with men in Jamaica
Men who have sex with men (MSM) have a high HIV disease burden worldwide. This is because the probability of HIV transmission for unprotected anal intercourse is high. In addition, social and cultural factors such as poverty, access to services, stigma, discrimination, homophobia, gender roles and sexual identity contribute to the greater vulnerability of MSM to HIV infection. Prevention efforts have had limited success in curbing HIV among MSM.
HIV prevalence among MSM in the Caribbean is high and in Jamaica was reported at 32% for nearly two decades. This study aimed to update estimates of HIV prevalence among MSM in Jamaica and explore the underlying factors contributing to the high level of HIV infection.
Design
An island-wide cross-sectional survey of MSM aged 16 years or older was conducted in Jamaica in 2011. MSM were recruited by peer referral and targeted outreach. A structured questionnaire was administered and HIV/STI tests done. Three groups of MSM were compared: MSM who accepted cash for sex within the prior three months, MSM who did not accept cash for sex, and MSM with adverse life events (raped, jailed, homeless, victim of violence, or low literacy).
This study brings new insight into the factors contributing to the high HIV prevalence among MSM in Jamaica and many other countries.
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