A question: Higher probability of contracting HIV among MSM?

[Guest guest]

Dear Members of the Forum,

I have a question to ask you all - Why is it that MSMs or individuals of

alternative sexuality have a higher chance of contracting the virus?

Could you also tell me the statistics of those infected in this group?

Thanks and regards,

Supreeta

--

Supreeta Singh

Communication and Media Relations

Drik India

e-mail: <supreetasingh@...>

[Guest guest]

Subject: A question: Higher probability of contracting HIV among MSM?

In the United States, MSM (Men who have sex with Men) accounted for 70% of all

estimated HIV infections among male adults and adolescents in 2004 (based on

data from 35 areas with long-term, confidential name-based HIV reporting*), even

though only about 5% to 7% of male adults and adolescents in the United States

identify themselves as MSM [1,2]. The number of HIV diagnoses for MSM decreased

during the 1980s and 1990s, but recent surveillance data show an increase in HIV

diagnoses for this group [3, 4]. This increase points to a continued need for

culturally appropriate prevention and education services.

For further details on risk factors go to:

http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/resources/factsheets/msm.htm

Usha Sharma PhD, MPH

Division of AIDS,

Prevention Sciences Branch

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

e-mail: <USharma@...>