Safer sex and social class: Findings from a study of men using the 'gay scene' in the West Midlands Region of the United Kingdom

Abstract

This article reports on associations between socio-demographic factors and safer sexual behaviour among gay and bisexual men in an English region. A cross-sectional survey using an anonymous self-complete questionnaire collected information on sexual behaviour and sociodemographic characteristics. All men using specified 'gay' venues and groups during the data collection period, were offered inclusion. Of the 858 men returning completed questionnaires, a greater proportion (30.3%) were from manual occupations when compared to previous United Kingdom studies. Of the whole sample, 64.6% reported either consistent condom use (safer sexual behaviour) or no anal sex during the last 12 months. No associations were found between age or ethnicity and consistency of condom use. Social class and employment status, however, were associated: those in manual occupations and those not working were more likely to be inconsistent in their condom use and students were more likely to be consistent. Inconsistent condom use was more likely to occur when having anal sex with 'boyfriends', and data on relationship length suggest that this may be occurring inappropriately in relation to risk of HIV infection. These findings suggest that social class and employment status may be related to safer sex practice.