Risk behaviors and unprotected sex related to HIV

Abstract

Risk behaviors and unprotected sex were examined among men who have sex with men (MSM) (N=386) to support information for setting up a guideline to design an HIV/AIDS intervention program among this population in Angiang province, Vietnam. A cross-sectional method with time l ocation sampling was used to collect data. Chi-square and logistic regression we re used to identify selected risk factors and unprotected sex. Results show that a majority of MSM was young and consistent condom use was low. Younger MSM used condoms more inconsistentl y with their male clients than older MSM. Lower educated MSM used condoms mo re inconsistently with female sex workers than higher educated MSM. Likewise, lower educated MSM were more likely to be injecting drug users than higher educated MSM. In contrast, higher educated MSM were more likely to drink alcohol and have sex when drunk, use more MDMA (Methylenedioxymethamphetamine) or both MDMA and injecting drug s, and share needles and syringes with drug use partners when compared to lo wer educated MSM. The key findings show that risk behaviors such as MDMA use and types of partners affect unprotected sex among MSM. Recommendations suggest that the results of this study could be used as a MSM information database for policy makers and stakeholders to comprehensively understand the situation of MSM in Angiang province. These results can also be used to advocate HIV/AIDS policy, encourage more effective data to support harm reduction intervention programs among MSM in Angiang province