Risk Factors for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection and Unprotected Anal Intercourse Among Young Men Who Have Sex With Men

Abstract

Few studies concerning human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and its risk behaviors have been conducted among young men who have sex with men (YMSM). These are important because YMSM will have profound influence on the HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome epidemic. To estimate the prevalence of and risk factors associated with HIV infection and recent unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) among YMSM in California. Between March and October, 1994, 836 men, 17 to 25 years of age, were surveyed at four California sites. The survey consisted of an interview from a standardized questionnaire and a blood draw for HIV antibody testing. Almost 9.0% tested positive for HIV antibodies, whereas about 36.0% reported recent UAI. Several factors were associated both univariately and multivariately with HIV infection, as well as for recent UAI. Young men who have sex with men in California continue to engage in behaviors risky for HIV infection. Efforts helping YMSM reduce them should target subgroups having a high HIV seroprevalence or recent UAI prevalence.