HIV vulnerability of men who have sex with men in developing countries: Horizons studies, 2001-2008

Public Health Rep. 2010 Mar-Apr;125(2):316-24. doi: 10.1177/003335491012500222.

Abstract

While male-to-male sexual behavior has been recognized as a primary risk factor for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), research targeting men who have sex with men (MSM) in less-developed countries has been limited due to high levels of stigma and discrimination. In response, the Population Council's Horizons Program began implementing research activities in Africa and South America beginning in 2001, with the objectives of gathering information on MSM sexual risk behaviors, evaluating HIV-prevention programs, and informing HIV policy makers. The results of this nearly decade-long program are presented in this article as a summary of the Horizons MSM studies in Africa (Senegal and Kenya) and Latin America (Brazil and Paraguay), and include research methodologies, study findings, and interventions evaluated. We also discuss future directions and approaches for HIV research among MSM in developing countries.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Africa / epidemiology
  • Attitude of Health Personnel / ethnology
  • Attitude to Health / ethnology
  • Developing Countries* / statistics & numerical data
  • HIV Infections / ethnology
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control*
  • Health Planning Support
  • Health Policy
  • Homosexuality, Male* / ethnology
  • Homosexuality, Male* / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Latin America / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Patient Selection
  • Prejudice
  • Qualitative Research
  • Research Design
  • Risk-Taking
  • Stereotyping
  • Unsafe Sex
  • Vulnerable Populations* / ethnology
  • Vulnerable Populations* / statistics & numerical data