The Mpowerment project: A community-level HIV prevention intervention for young gay men

S.M. Kegeles, R.B. Hays and T.J. Coates

American Journal of Public Health, 1996, vol. 86, issue 8, 1129-1136

Abstract: Objectives. Since young gay men are engaging in alarmingly high rates of unsafe sex and few seek help for changing risky behaviors, community- level programs to prevent infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among them are urgently needed. Methods. Wc developed and implemented a community-level HIV prevention program in a midsized Oregon community. The peer-led program had three components: outreach, small groups, and a publicity campaign. Independently from the prevention program, a cohort of young gay men (n = 300) was surveyed in this and in a similar comparison community pre- and postintervention. Results. Following intervention, the proportion of men engaging in any unprotected anal intercourse decreased from 41.0% to 30.0% (-27% from baseline), decreased from 20.2% to 11.1% (- 45% from baseline) with nonprimary partners, and decreased from 58.9% to 44.7% (-24% from baseline) with boyfriends. No significant changes occurred in the comparison community over the same period. Conclusions. This prevention approach effectively led to HIV risk reduction. To reach risk- taking young gay men, HIV prevention activities must be embedded in social activities and community life.

Date: 1996
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:aph:ajpbhl:1996:86:8:1129-1136_4

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