Data-Informed Strategies For HIV Risk and Prevention Among Gay and Bisexual Men: Age Related Differences in Emerging Adults

An abstract of a study by Downey et al examining CDC's secondary data analysis to understand the HlV prevention needs of young men who have sex with men (MSM), examine if differences exist between late teens versus those in their early twenties, and provide guidance on the potential direction of an HIV risk reduction campaign focused on this audience is presented. Their findings underscore that younger MSM aged 18-19 reported lower normative beliefs, behavioral beliefs, and self-efficacy to get tested for HIV, and lower self-efficacy to communicate with sexual partners about HIV prevention, relative to their older counterparts. Coupled with the epidemiological data that underscore the alarming burden of HIV among this group, customized messages, resources, and materials tailored to meet the developmental needs of younger MSM are needed. Appropriate messaging and materials should inform this audience about access to fast, free, and confidential HIV testing and provide skills-building tactics to increase their self-efficacy to get tested regularly and communicate with their sexual partners about HIV.