Social Networks, Sexual Networks and HIV Risk in Men Who Have Sex with Men

Abstract

Worldwide, men who have sex with men (MSM) remain one of the most HIV-vulnerable community populations. A global public health priority is developing new methods of reaching MSM, understanding HIV transmission patterns, and intervening to reduce their risk. Increased attention is being given to the role that MSM networks play in HIV epidemiology. This review of MSM network research studies demonstrates that: (1) Members of the same social network often share similar norms, attitudes, and HIV risk behavior levels; (2) Network interventions are feasible and powerful for reducing unprotected sex and potentially for increasing HIV testing uptake; (3) HIV vulnerability among African American MSM increases when an individual enters a high-risk sexual network characterized by high density and racial homogeneity; and (4) Networks are primary sources of social support for MSM, particularly for those living with HIV, with greater support predicting higher care uptake and adherence.

Prevention of HIV and Other Sexually Transmissible Infections in Expatriates and Traveler Networks: Qualitative Study of Peer Interaction in an Online Forum (Preprint)

“…Participants in the forum provided and received social support, and influenced one another, factors cited as critical in creating peer norms and behaviors including attitudes about sexual risk behaviors [41]. Future considerations include better understanding the way in which the expatriate and traveler network functions (both on and offline), including cohesion, density and homophily [85][86][87].…”

“…Previous research regarding HIV risk and the social and sexual networks of men who have sex with men has suggested that networks create an environment with shared behavioral norms and risk characteristics [41]. Communities such as this forum existing predominantly online, gradually develop norms as members get to know each other and start to debate and agree on what is acceptable [42].…”

“…We found evidence of sophisticated governance regarding acceptable behaviors and a pre-established network with sustainability and structure. These elements are important to the strength and stability of a peer network which are important considerations for any intervention which may use social network or peer approaches such as those used for example, with people who inject drugs [43,44] or men who have sex with men [41].…”

Características epidemiológicas de la infección por VIH en Paraguay durante el año 2015

“…8 y Amirkhanian y cols. 9 , en especial en la población transexual 10 . Como conclusión, en nuestra serie la epidemia sigue teniendo predominio en grupos de riesgo, de sexo masculino y en zonas urbanas.…”

Association Between Childhood Sexual Abuse and HIV-Related Risk Factors for HIV-Positive Haitian Women

“…Individuals who demonstrate positive social support tend to have higher medication adherence, are more likely to disclose their HIV status to partners and loved ones, have lower transmission rates, stronger immune systems and better health, and are less likely to be socially isolated (Kingori, Haile, & Ngatia, 2015;Amirkhanian, 2014;Glick & Golden, 2014;De et al, 2013;Casale & Wild, 2013;Rao et al, 2012). Without social support, individuals who are HIV-positive are more likely to experience high rates of stress, anxiety, depression, guilt, shame, and substance use (Kingori, Haile, & Ngatia, 2015;Cortes, Hunt, & McHale, 2014).…”