The characteristics of internet‐based venue sex‐seeking and mobility among money boys in Tianjin, China

Abstract

Objectives Internet‐based venue sex‐seeking is prevalent among money boys (MBs), as is a high degree of mobility, which is crucial for HIV transmission in key populations with high risks of HIV infection. However, correlation studies in MBs are scarce because of the secretive nature of this hard‐to‐reach subpopulation. We conducted this project to explore the characteristics of MBs. Methods This survey was conducted from December 2014 to June 2015 in Tianjin; a total of 330 MBs were recruited by convenience sampling. Demographic and behavioural data were collected for analysis. Results Among the investigated MBs, 38 (11.52%) were HIV positive, 147 (44.55%) reported using internet‐based venues to seek sexual partners and 257 (77.88%) had travelled to two or more destinations in the past 6 months. Compared with non‐internet‐based venue‐using MBs, internet‐based venue‐using MBs were more likely to have part‐time employment as MBs, to have a longer duration of working in the sex trade, to engage in finger intercourse and to present a history of substance abuse and sexually transmitted infections. However, internet‐based venue‐using MBs were less likely to exhibit consistent condom usage and undergo HIV testing. Origin of residence data showed that most MBs were from northern China, with Tianjin, Beijing and Shanghai as the main travel destinations. Mobile MBs were characterized as a group who were fully engaged in the sex trade and frequently took part in sexual activities but had a weak sense of self‐protection. Conclusions Internet‐based venue sex‐seeking and mobility are prevalent in MBs. Renewed efforts in internet‐based health promotion and school‐based primary health examination programmes may benefit more mobile and/or internet‐based venue sex‐seeking MBs.

Recreational Drug use and Risk of HIV Infection Among Young Men Who Have Sex with men: A Cross-Sectional Study in Tianjin, China

“…In this study, YMSM using recreational drugs were more likely to nd sexual partners based on physical venues (gay bars, parks, and gay bathhouses). YMSM nding sexual partners through the internet-based route accounted for a large proportion (889/1075, 82.7%), which was consistent with the ndings in China [38] and in the United States [39][40][41]. The proportion of recreational drugs used among YMSM seeking sexual partners through the internet-based route was 45% (400/889).…”

Providing HIV testing in men who have sex with men through a gay social networking app in China: A qualitative interview study with multisectoral service providers

“…Considering geographic distance is associated with HIV testing services rates ( 38 ), expanding AHTS to rural areas would facilitate utilization of HIV testing in the future. Access to AHTS for MSM without access to the app, who were elderly, or traveled regularly (for work, truck drivers, etc.,) was an additional concern as AHTS was only available locally ( 39 , 40 ). Clearly, while AHTS has the potential to increase HIV testing among MSM, this strategy has inherent restrictions which currently cannot replace other means of booking.…”