Seek, Test, and Retain. Linkages for Black HIV+, Substance-Using MSM

The HIV epidemic in the United States most severely affects men who have sex with men (MSM): 61% of all new infections occur in this population. Black MSM bear a disproportionate burden, with prevalence of 28%, in contrast to 19% in MSM overall. Black MSM undergo HIV testing less frequently than other MSM; are less likely to be aware that they are HIV infected; are more likely to experience delays in entry into HIV care; and are less likely to be prescribed antiretroviral therapy (ART) when eligible. These disparities are pronounced in substance-using MSM, as substance users are at elevated risk of late diagnosis and delayed engagement in HIV care. The combination of pervasive stigma associated with MSM behavior and high rates of substance use hinders effective prevention efforts in this population, even as the prevalence of infection in Black MSM in some US cities approaches 50%. Reducing HIV-related disparities in MSM and among Black Americans are National HIV/AIDS Strategy priorities and are essential to the effort to control and prevent HIV/AIDS in the US.

Inclusion criteria

• Self-identify as Black, African American, Caribbean Black, or multi-ethnic Black
• Identify as male
• Greater than 18 years old
• Have had sex with a man during the preceding 12 months
• Have ever used illicit drugs or alcohol to intoxication

Exclusion criteria

*Participation in other study assessing linkage and retention in HIV care