A Comparison of Psychosocial Factors,Substance Use Behaviors,and Sexual Behaviors by Self-Reported HIV Status Among Middle-Aged Hispanic Men Who Have Sex With Men

Abstract

Introduction:

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a significant health issue among Hispanic men who have sex with men (MSM). Despite existing research, no studies have compared psychosocial factors by self-reported HIV antibody status.

Method:

Participants (n = 150) completed measures of social support, loneliness, depressive symptoms, substance use, and sexual behaviors.

Results:

Participants with a self-reported HIV-antibody positive status reported lower levels of social support and higher levels of illicit substance use. Hispanic MSM with an unknown HIV antibody status reported more sexual partners.

Conclusion:

More research is needed to address psychosocial factors (social support, loneliness, depressive symptoms), substance use, and sexual behaviors among Hispanic MSM.

Keywords

Hispanics HIV men who have sex with men risk behaviors

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