S13.3 The Status of HIV Prevention Among MSM: An Overview of the European Response. (13th July 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sfetcu, O; Noori, T; Spiteri, G; Pharris, A; Laar, M van de
• Is Part Of: Sexually transmitted infections. Volume 89(2013)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A20
• Page End: A20
• Publication Date: 2013-07-13
• Subjects: gonorrhoea -- MSM -- Syphilis; Sexually transmitted diseases -- Periodicals; HIV infections -- Periodicals; 616.951005
• DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2013-051184.0063
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1368-4973

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction: MSM in the European Union and European Economic Area (EU/EEA) are disproportionately affected by STI: 39% of all HIV diagnoses, 33% of gonorrhoea and 55% of syphilis cases were reported among MSM in 2011. Methods: Analyses of surveillance data and information from countries responses for Dublin Declaration monitoring were combined with a review of existing national prevention intervention programmes targeted at MSM. Characteristics of 118 prevention interventions studies were included in the repository. Results: Outbreaks of syphilis, hepatitis C and lymphogranuloma venereum and increasing trends of gonorrhoea and HIV among MSM, observed between 1995–2011, were reported to be associated with high levels of risk behaviour, sexual networking and socio-economic and cultural factors. The national responses included: strenghtening of surveillance, prevention and care; enhanced partner notification; and development of a range of prevention intervention programmes. The majority of prevention interventions used media campaigns, education and counselling followed by harm reduction strategies like condom distribution and HIV/STI testing alone or combined with other activities. Nearly half of the behavioural interventions studies reported proper outcome evaluation. In 2012, HIV/STI prevention programmes targeted to MSM were implemented in 22/30 EU/EEA countries, with non-governmental organisations playing a key role in programme implementation through campaigns, outreach work, information provision and condom distribution. Reported coverage of HIV prevention programmes for MSM ranged from 43% to 76% across countries. Rates of HIV testing among MSM during the last 12 month ranged from 12% to 74% and rates of condom use at last anal intercourse from 42% to 64%. Conclusion: Diversity across EU/EEA in the design and implementation of prevention intervention strategies reflects various characteristics of MSM populations and the changing epidemiology of STI/HIV. A common need exists for improving the effectiveness of prevention intervention programmes, for targeting young, migrant and ethnic-minority MSM and for ensuring adequate funding.