HIV prevention interventions for adolescents and young adults: what about the needs of gay and bisexual males?

AIDS Behav. 2013 Mar;17(3):1082-95. doi: 10.1007/s10461-012-0178-1.

Abstract

While rates of HIV infection among gay/bisexual male adolescents have been increasing in the U.S., there has not been a commensurate increase in the development of HIV prevention interventions targeted specifically for this population. This editorial review examines primary HIV prevention interventions published in peer-reviewed journals between 1991 and 2010 in order to explore the differential focus on heterosexual versus gay/bisexual male adolescents/young adults. Of the 92 articles reviewed, only 5 (5.44 %) included interventions that addressed gay/bisexual sexual orientation or same-gender sexual activity. HIV prevention interventions developed for adolescents/young adults in the U.S. are not targeting those at highest risk of infection. Recommendations for addressing this gap are discussed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Bisexuality / psychology*
  • Child
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control*
  • Heterosexuality / psychology
  • Homosexuality, Male / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Needs Assessment*
  • Program Evaluation*
  • Young Adult