A Community Needs Assessment to Inform HIV and Substance Abuse Prevention Services for Black and Latino Young Men Who Have Sex with Men in New York City

Abstract

A community needs assessment was conducted at an AIDS service organization in New York City to inform the development of an HIV and substance abuse prevention program for black and Latino young men who have sex with men (YMSM). Data from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene indicated that HIV infections in Black andLatino YMSM were concentrated in Brooklyn and Queens. Evidence from existing studies of YMSM suggested that Black and Latino YMSM are more likely than other YMSM to be HIV infected and unaware of their diagnosis. Furthermore, partner characteristics and peer norms might influence HIV infection and HIV sexual risk behavior, particularly among Black YMSM. Recommendations include routine HIV/sexually transmitted infection testing and addressing issues around sexual partners and communication about HIV status and condom use in the context of HIV prevention activities for Black and Latino YMSM.