Lower HIV Prevalence Among Asian/Pacific Islander Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Critical Review for Possible Reasons

Author: Wei Chongyi   Raymond H.   Wong Frank   Silvestre Anthony   Friedman Mark   Documét Patricia   McFarland Willi   Stall Ron  

Publisher: Springer Publishing Company

ISSN: 1090-7165

Source: AIDS and Behavior, Vol.15, Iss.3, 2011-04, pp. : 535-549

Disclaimer: Any content in publications that violate the sovereignty, the constitution or regulations of the PRC is not accepted or approved by CNPIEC.

Previous Menu Next

Abstract

We conducted a critical literature review for possible reasons that may explain the lower HIV prevalence observed among API MSM compared to MSM of other races/ethnicities. Trends emerging from the literature suggest that traditional individual-level factors—unprotected anal intercourse, substance use, STD prevalence, rates and frequency of HIV testing, and utilization of HIV prevention services—do not appear to be related to the lower HIV prevalence among API MSM. Some evidence suggests that socio-cultural and structural factors might be the more critical forces in determining racial/ethnic disparities of HIV among MSM. For API MSM, these factors include structures of sexual networks, access to and reception of medical care and treatment among HIV-positive MSM, and influences of different levels and types of acculturation. Moreover, emerging risk reduction strategies, such as seroadaptive behaviors, could play a role. Future research should address these factors in intervention design. In addition, better theories of resilience and measurement of strengths and protective factors are needed to enhance the efficacy of HIV interventions.

Related content