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BACKGROUND: Prior research has consistently shown that the involvement of families plays a vital role in reducing risk behaviors, such as engaging in condomless sex, and promoting HIV prevention behaviors among young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM). With the aim of expanding the existing knowledge, this study aimed to examine the specific influence of families and other supportive adults in facilitating casual condom use, partner condom use, HIV testing, and preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) utilization among young Black MSM. METHODS: A sample of YBMSM aged 18-29 years (N = 400) was collected online. We used a path analysis to examine the influence of family factors on PrEP stigma and PrEP use. Respondents were recruited from December 1, 2021, to January 31, 2022. We used a path analysis to examine the direct and indirect effects of family factors on PrEP use through HIV testing and encouraging condom use. RESULTS: Among BMSM, other adult support was positive and directly associated with condom use by both casual partners (β = 0.04, p

Background: Condom use has long been recommended as an effective method for preventing HIV/AIDS. However, a large proportion of older adults in China reported not using condoms, leading to an alarming increase in HIV prevalence among this population. Negative attitudes, especially condom-related stigma, have been identified as the main barrier. However, no condom-related stigma scale has been developed or validated for older adults in the Chinese cultural context. This study aimed to adapt and validate a condom-related stigma scale for older adults (CRSS-OA) in China, based on a scale previously developed for men who have sex with men (CRSS). Methods: Based on qualitative interviews, we adapted and revised the CRSS to better address the ageism and unique stigma faced by older adults in the Chinese cultural context. The reliability and validity of the adapted CRSS-OA were examined using a random sample of 498 older adults in Hunan Province, south-central China. Reliability was assessed by calculating Cronbach's alpha. Construct validity was assessed through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Concurrent validity was assessed by examining the correlation between each factor of the CRSS-OA and two criterion scales (the HIV/AIDS Stigma Scale and the Aging Sexual Attitudes Scale). Predictive validity was evaluated by analyzing the association between condom-related stigma and engagement in condomless sexual behavior. Results: The adapted scale included 16 items, loading on three factors, and collectively explaining 70.646% of the variance. These factors were named "labeling condom use," "shaming condom purchase," and "violating traditional sex beliefs," demonstrating strong internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha coefficients of 0.942, 0.850, and 0.852, respectively. Concurrent validity was established by evaluating the correlation between each factor of the CRSS-OA and two criterion scales, with Pearson correlation coefficients ranging from 0.227 to 0.508 (p < 0.05). Predictive validity was assessed by measuring the scale's ability to correctly predict condomless sexual behavior, with an average predictability of 0.77. Conclusions: The adapted CRSS-OA has proven to be a valid and cultural-adaptive tool for assessing condom-related stigma among older adults in China. Further studies are needed to explore the external validity of this scale in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article from the New England Journal of Medicine discusses a case of a 29-year-old man presenting with fever, chills, and joint pain, highlighting the challenges in diagnosing his condition. The patient's symptoms suggest possible infections, including sexually transmitted infections and reactive arthritis. The article emphasizes the importance of considering multiple diagnoses and tailoring treatment based on microbiologic testing. The patient was ultimately diagnosed with syphilis and septic arthritis, highlighting the complexities of managing such cases, especially in individuals with injection drug use history. [Extracted from the article]

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Background: Contraception care is recognized as a basic human right, however, many individuals continue to face challenges in accessing adequate care. For youth, factors that influence access to prescription contraception include affordability, availability, acceptability, and youth awareness of these options. As a result, contraception uptake in Canada remains low, with 22.9% of sexually active 15 to 24-year-olds reporting that they did not use a condom or another form of contraception the last time they had sex. Collaborating with youth and meaningfully engaging them in all stages of the research process may help us better understand and develop solutions and services that yield stronger usability among youth. Main Text: We engaged in a co-design process to involve youth in the generation of research recruitment materials. In this article, we offer a rich description of the experiences of youth as embedded researchers and contribute to the methodology of co-design research by highlighting specific characteristics in our approach that facilitated youth engagement. Through a series of six virtual workshops, four youth research assistants and eight youth advisors engaged in discussion activities that generated ideas for the recruitment materials for a research study called 'Ask Us: Youth Voices to Improve Contraception Access'. Our strategies included the (i) Re-distribution of Power to Enable Youth Participation, (ii) Use of Technology to Promote Collaboration and Confidentiality and (iii) Emphasizing Reciprocal Knowledge Building, to facilitate meaningful youth participation. Conclusions: The co-design sessions resulted in the creation of the Ask Us study recruitment materials (www.askusproject.ca) and youth informed the chosen wording, colour scheme, images, and more. Our purposeful steps to involve embedded youth research assistants, acknowledge the differences and redistribution of power among researchers and youth advisors, use technology to promote collaboration and confidentiality and emphasize reciprocal knowledge sharing led to a meaningful co-design experience for us as youth research assistants. We argue that deeper considerations of accountability by academic researchers and embedded youth research assistants can further promote youth participation by enabling spaces where youth feel safe. Plain English Summary: Background: Many youth face challenges in accessing contraception care. Factors such as affordability, availability, acceptability, and youth awareness of contraceptive options may create barriers for youth to access contraception. This has resulted in a low uptake of contraception among Canadian youth. Collaborating with youth to understand their experiences accessing contraception can help us develop solutions and services that yield stronger usability among youth. Main Text: We invited youth advisors to participate in a co-design activity to generate research recruitment materials for a qualitative study called 'Ask Us: Youth Voices to Improve Contraception Access'. This article was written from the perspective of four youth research assistants who also participated in the youth engagement activities before participant recruitment for this study. Through a series of virtual workshops, the youth advisors and youth research assistants developed research recruitment materials. We, the youth research assistants, reflected on the strategies used to encourage youth participation and identified the following themes: (i) Re-distribution of Power to Enable Youth Participation, (ii) Use of Technology to Promote Collaboration and Confidentiality and (iii) Emphasizing Reciprocal Knowledge Building. Conclusions: Following the co-design sessions, we created Ask Us study recruitment materials (www.askusproject.ca). Components of the recruitment materials, such as wording, colour scheme, images etc. were informed by the youth. We took steps to involve embedded youth researchers, acknowledge the differences and redistribution of power among researchers and youth advisors, use technology to promote collaboration and confidentiality and emphasize reciprocal knowledge sharing. Based on our insights as youth research assistants participating in this process, we conclude that the engagement activities led to a meaningful co-design experience for youth research assistants. In addition to these strategies, we encourage researchers to consider how they can remain accountable in creating co-design environments where youth feel safe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coitus interruptus – colloquially referred to as withdrawal – is an attempt at contraception wherein the penis is removed from the vagina prior to ejaculation, with ejaculation occurring somewhere outside the vagina. Although withdrawal can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is less efficacious than methods such as consistent condom use and hormonal birth control. Consequently, it is of public health importance to identify sociocultural influences that either increase or decrease the likelihood of withdrawal as a contraceptive technique. Multiple content analyses have identified external ejaculation as common in popular pornography, yet no study appears to have assessed whether more frequent pornography consumption increases the likelihood of withdrawal behavior. Using national probability data, the present study examined whether pornography use and withdrawal were correlated among U.S. women aged 15–49. Women who consumed pornography more frequently were more likely to report using withdrawal as a contraceptive method than women who consumed pornography less frequently, but this association was moderated by perceptions of pornography’s utility and women’s marital status. Results are discussed through the lens of the sexual script acquisition, activation, application model (3AM) of sexual media socialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perú has a high rate of unintended pregnancies. STI rates grow. New policies are needed. Contextual factors in the condom use decision are understudied. Self-reported measures of use have proven unreliable. I used a hostal (love-motel) to conduct a field experiment. 102 couples were randomly allocated to three groups with different levels of condom availability. Instead of using self-reported measures, after a couple left, I searched their room for used condoms. Couples in rooms with a condom on the nightstand were 268% more likely to use one than the control group. For couples with a condom available at the reception desk, the increase was 176%. Facilitating condoms in hostales is a suitable strategy to decrease unprotected sex in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adolescents face numerous challenges that influence their sexual behaviors. Among these, bullying victimization is a critical yet understudied factor that may impact engagement in unprotected sex. This study investigated the correlates of condom use among school-going Thai adolescents, with a main focus on bullying victimization. Methods: This study is a secondary analysis of the Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) conducted in 2021 among a nationally representative sample of students in grades 7–12 in Thailand. The analysis included all the sexually active students with condom use in the last sex as the main outcome variable. Bivariate binary logistic regression analysis was used to examine the odds of using condom across various explanatory variables. Additional adjusted logistic regression models were constructed to examine the association between bullying experiences and condom use while controlling for the potential confounding effect of other explanatory variables. Results: Among sexually active participants, 416 (69%) reported using condoms in their last sex and more than half of them reported bullying experiences. Besides bullying, this study identifies several factors such as older age (< 14) and higher grades that were associated with lower use of condoms. Additionally, other psychosocial factors such as suicidal ideation and attempts as well as physical violence, and lack of close friends decrease the odds of condom use. Substance use, particularly marijuana and amphetamine/methamphetamine, was also associated with lower condom use. Although all types of bullying experiences were associated with lower condom use in bivariate analyses, the association remained significant only for bullying at school in the adjusted model (AOR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.18–0.86). Conclusion: The findings emphasize a holistic approach to addressing bullying, particularly within schools, and promoting protected sexual behaviors among school-going adolescents through early anti-bullying interventions and incorporating tailored sex education into school curricula, and at Thai schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the importance of long-acting HIV medicines in addressing global inequality in access to treatment. It highlights the potential of these medicines to empower individuals, reduce stigma, and improve health outcomes. The text emphasizes the need for a nonlinear approach to global access, decentralized production, and wider licensing to ensure equitable distribution of these innovative treatments. The article calls for prioritizing long-acting treatment options for low- and middle-income countries to effectively combat the AIDS pandemic. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Preconception health is important for men as it is for women. However, optimizing preconception health is understudied among men. Objectives: To examine the time trends and temporal shifts in preconception health risk indicators among 20–44‐year‐old adult US men in need of preconception care and their racial/ethnic variations. Materials and methods: Data from the 2011–2019 National Survey of Family Growth male file was used to estimate the prevalence of nine preconception health indicators among men (20–44 years) intending to have a future pregnancy (n = 6813), stratifying by race/ethnicity, and assessing temporal changes across the study period. Binary logit and linear regression models estimated temporal trends from 2011–2013 to 2017–2019. Absolute and relative changes were estimated to detect temporal shifts in men's preconception health comparing 2011–2013 to 2017–2019. Results: Men in all groups exhibited substantial preconception health needs, with unique trends across race/ethnicity groups. Between 2011 and 2019, the prevalence of marijuana use (28.6%–39.4%, p = 0.001), overweight/obese status (60.7%–65.1%, p ≤ 0.001), and the mean number of preconception health indicators (M = 2.69–2.84, p = 0.018) increased. Among non‐Hispanic White men, the prevalence of marijuana use (30.1%–41.4%, p = 0.028), overweight/obese status (60.6%–63.7%, p = 0.002), and mean number of preconception health risk indicators (M = 2.74–2.90, p = 0.033) increased. Among Hispanic men, the prevalence of inconsistent/no condom use (68.9%–81.4%, p = 0.022), marijuana use (18.9%–40.4%, p = 0.001), and the mean number preconception health risk indicators (M = 2.50–2.96, p = 0.014) increased. Among non‐Hispanic Black men, sexually transmitted infections declined (5.4%–3.6%, p = 0.002). Significant temporal shifts, which varied by race/ethnicity, were also observed. Discussion and conclusion: Our study, which provides initial insight into men's preconception health development in the last decade, highlights a tremendous need for preconception health care among men. Their increasing preconception health needs, and their racial/ethnic variations, suggest additional contributors to racial/ethnic differences in men's reproductive outcomes and their long‐term health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript, we present a novel mathematical model for understanding the dynamics of HIV/AIDS and analyzing optimal control strategies. To capture the disease dynamics, we propose a new Caputo-Fabrizio fractional-order mathematical model denoted as SEIEUPIATR, where the exposed class is subdivided into two categories: exposed-identified EI and exposed-unidentified EU individuals. Exposed-identified individuals become aware of the disease within three days, while exposed-unidentified individuals remain unaware for more than three days. Simultaneously, we introduce a treatment compartment with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), represented as P, designed for individuals of the exposed identified class. These individuals initiate treatment upon identification and continue for 28 days, resulting in full recovery from HIV. Additionally, we categorize infectious individuals into two groups: under-treatment individuals, denoted as T, and those with fully developed AIDS not receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) treatment, denoted as A. We establish that the proposed model has a unique, bounded, and positive solution, along with other fundamental characteristics. Disease-free and endemic equilibrium points and their associated properties (such as the reproduction number R0 and stability analysis) are determined. Sensitivity analysis is performed to assess the impact of parameters on R0 and hence on the disease dynamics. Finally, we formulate a fractional optimal control problem to examine strategies for minimizing HIV/AIDS infection while keeping costs at a minimum. We adopt the use of condoms and changes in sexual habits as optimal controls. The numerical results are presented and discussed through graphs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objectives and Methods Results Discussion and conclusions Accurately judging the efficacy of contraceptives is vital for preventing unintended pregnancy. The Pearl index and life table analysis describe female contraceptive performance. However, they are not ideal for quantifying male contraceptive efficacy given differences between male and female methods. In particular, male contraceptives like condoms are used “on demand” rather than long‐term like female contraceptives. Additionally, the number of episodes of sexual intercourse, a key determinant of risk, is not considered. Lastly, men can father concurrent pregnancies in more than one woman. For these reasons, a male‐specific measure may provide a more accurate measure of male contraceptive efficacy.As each episode of heterosexual intercourse within a fertile couple is associated with an approximately 3% risk of pregnancy, the chance of an unintended pregnancy with a given number of episodes of sexual intercourse can be modeled with and without contraceptives of various effectiveness.Such modeling demonstrates that unintended pregnancy is strongly associated with both the number of episodes of sexual intercourse and the efficacy of the method. Based on these models, I propose a novel metric for male contraceptive efficacy called the Probability of Pregnancy100, defined as the percent chance of an unintended pregnancy occurring with 100 episodes of intercourse. Probability of Pregnancy100 should be easy for men to understand and is applicable to men with multiple sexual partners or men using “on‐demand” contraceptives.The prevention of unintended pregnancy by a male contraceptive is strongly influenced by both method efficacy and sexual frequency. Probability of Pregnancy100 may offer a better measure of male contraceptive efficacy compared to the Pearl index and life table analysis as it takes sexual frequency into account; however, Probability of Pregnancy100 will need to be tested prospectively in male contraceptive studies alongside the Pearl index and life table analysis to determine its utility compared to these existing measures of contraceptive efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is currently limited knowledge about HIV prevention and treatment cascades among female sex workers (FSW) in Ghana. This study sought to use the 2020 bio-behavioural survey (BBS) among FSWs to identify gaps and priorities in HIV treatment and prevention cascades to help achieve the 95–95-95 fast track targets. Method: The study used a cross-sectional design with Time Location Sampling (TLS) technique in all regions of Ghana. All eligible FSW at the selected venues and stipulated time frame were interviewed and tested for HIV onsite using the national testing algorithm. For condom use and HIV testing cascades, each step of the cascade was calculated as a percentage of all FSW. Analysis of treatment cascade was restricted to HIV positive participants and was presented using both conditional (% eligible PLHIV) and unconditional (% all PLHIV) approaches. Viral suppression level was defined as < 1000 copies/ml. Results: A total of 6,773 participants took part in the behavioral interviews while 6,217 took part in the biological component which involves HIV testing. In all, 33% and 80% of all FSW do not consistently use condoms with their paying clients and non-paying partners respectively. The findings further show that 26.6% of FSW have never tested for HIV, and contrary to the HIV testing policy of every six months for FSW, 70.0% did not test for HIV 6 months preceding the survey and 40.7% of all FSW did not test for HIV 12 months preceding the survey. The conditional treatment cascade was 32%-71%-57% while the unconditional cascade was 32%-23%-49%. The study further shows 68% of the HIV positive FSW were not aware of their HIV positive status, 77% were not on treatment, while nearly 51% were not virally suppressed regardless of treatment status. Conclusion: The results show that both the prevention and treatment cascades are suboptimal. Key gaps identified include low: HIV testing, viral load suppression, condom use with both paying clients and non-paying partners. There is therefore the need to scale prevention and treatment interventions particularly HIV testing, treatment initiation, consistent condoms use with both paying clients and non-paying partners to help achieve the 95–95-95 fast track targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a nationwide study on Chlamydia trachomatis infections and genotypes among men who have sex with men in China. The study found an overall CT prevalence of 14.8%, with a higher prevalence in anorectal samples compared to urethral or oropharyngeal samples. Factors associated with a higher probability of CT infection included age, number of male sex partners, HIV status, Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection, and receptive anal role in sexual intercourse. The study highlights the need for chlamydia screening, especially rectal testing, and emphasizes the importance of tailored interventions for high-risk MSM populations. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: To eliminate vertical transmission of HIV, global institutions recommend using a risk-guided approach for HIV prevention services in antenatal and postnatal settings. Identifying predictors of maternal HIV acquisition can inform the development of risk-guided approaches, but individual studies of predictors can have limited power and generalizability. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and narrative synthesis to identify common predictors of maternal HIV acquisition in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). We searched four databases for full-text articles that estimated associations between at least one predictor and risk of HIV acquisition among pregnant and/or lactating women (PLW) in SSA. We restricted our synthesis to predictors assessed in at least four study populations. For these predictors, we summarized how each predictor was defined and used vote counting and descriptive statistics to characterize overall trends. Results: We identified 26 eligible publications that summarized results from 24 unique studies. Studies were implemented in 12 countries between 1988 and 2021 and enrolled a total of 164,480 PLW at risk of acquiring HIV. Of the 66 predictors evaluated, 16 met our inclusion criteria. Estimated associations tended to be imprecise and variability in how predictors were measured precluded meta-analyses. We observed trends towards a higher risk of maternal HIV acquisition among young women and women who reported early coital debut, multiple partnerships, sexually transmitted infections, being unaware of partner HIV status, or having a partner living with HIV. In most studies, PLW in stable, monogamous relationships experienced a lower risk of acquiring HIV than those who were single, separated, or in a polygynous marriage. HIV risk perception, condom use, and vaginal drying were also commonly associated with HIV acquisition risk. Conclusions: In our systematic review and narrative synthesis, we identified several easily measured characteristics that were associated with HIV acquisition among PLW in multiple study populations across SSA. Such findings can support the development and refinement of risk-guided approaches for HIV prevention in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Men who have sex with men (MSM) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are disproportionately affected by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) compared to adult men in the general population. Unprotected anal sexual intercourse is a high-risk behavior for HIV infection. This makes the correct and consistent use of condoms with condom-compatible lubricants crucial in reducing further HIV acquisition amongst the MSM population in SSA. However, consolidated data on the scope of the consistency of condom use with lubricants among MSM in SSA is lacking. In this regard, it was necessary to consolidate existing evidence on consistent condom usage with lubricants, as well as associated context-specific factors among the MSM population in SSA. A systematic review was conceptualized and registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration number: CRD42023437904). It was compiled following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) principles and guidelines between July 2023 and June 2024. We searched PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and governmental and non-governmental institutions to find published and gray literature relevant to the review objectives from 2005 to June 2024. Studies conducted in SSA, published in English, focusing on MSM aged ≥15 years and also reported condom and lubricant use were considered for this review. Following the removal of duplicates and ineligible articles, 40 studies out of 202 reviewed were selected for the study. The most common study designs were cross-sectional surveys (n = 32) followed by prospective cohorts (n = 4), integrated bio-behavioral surveillance surveys (n = 3), and intervention studies (n = 1). Of the 40 eligible studies included in this review, half (n = 20) reported consistent use of condoms but without lubricants, three reported consistent use of condoms with lubricants but did not specify the lubricant type, six reported consistent condom use with water-based condom-compatible lubricants, and 11 reported only condom use but not consistent usage. Factors linked to consistent condom use with lubricants among MSM from various studies included higher educational level, knowing one's HIV status, accessibility challenges, and older age. Having a high level of self-worth and HIV risk-reduction counseling was also associated with a consistency of condom use amongst MSM who engaged in receptive anal sex. This review indicates that only a few studies reported consistent condom use with lubricants and water-based compatible lubricants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual health and well-being are important components of overall well-being and quality of life. Yet, little is known about autistic persons' self-reported sexual health and well-being in Canada. In the current study, 3,551 youth aged 16–24 from across Canada were surveyed, including 419 youth who reported an autism diagnosis or self-identified as autistic. We examined demographic and sexual health data from autistic youth and assessed differences/similarities with non-autistic youth on key indicators. A significantly greater percentage of autistic youth reported a transgender identity (22.5% vs. 1.9%), an asexual identity (7.0% vs. 2.7%), and an LGBQ+ sexual orientation (55.6% vs. 22.3%), compared to non-autistic youth. Autistic youth were just as likely as non-autistic youth to value sexual pleasure. On average, autistic youth rated their sexual health as "good," and many were happy with their sexual lives. Half were in a committed relationship, and autistic youth in relationships were generally sexually and emotionally satisfied in their relationships. Many had engaged in partnered sexual behaviours (e.g., touching genitals, oral sex, penis–vagina sex), with a higher percentage of autistic youth reporting that they had ever had penis–anal sex (30.8% vs. 22.6%). Autistic youth and non-autistic youth reported similar condom/barrier use for most sexual behaviours. The implications of these findings for sexual health promotion with autistic youth are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Condoms are safe and effective at preventing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy (Hatcher, 2007; Holmes et al., 2004). However, when an individual enters a committed relationship, their condom use decreases significantly (Copen, 2017; Lehmiller et al., 2014; Matser et al., 2014; Weitzman et al., 2019). We surveyed 219 heterosexual individuals in committed relationships and 87 in noncommitted sexual relationships to determine differences in their condom use patterns. We collected data on individual psychometric characteristics (condom use attitudes, sexual narcissism, perceived invulnerability, concern for sexual pleasure, condom use self-efficacy, and concern for pregnancy and STIs), individual sexual behaviors (birth control usage, type of sexual activity, number of partners, number of sexual encounters), and couple characteristics (commitment and exclusivity). We modeled the predictors using hierarchical regressions. Our model for coupled participants was significant, F(3, 150) = 10.12, p = .002, R2 = .36, and included birth control, pregnancy, and condom use attitudes as significant predictors. Our model for single individuals was also significant, F(3, 82) = 18.02, p < .001, R2 = .38, and included STI concern, pregnancy concern, and condom use attitudes as significant predictors. Understanding predictors of when college-aged individuals in committed and casual relationships chose to use condoms may allow researchers to be able to create better, targeted tactics to promote condom use in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People differ in their predispositions to value safety maintenance (i.e., disease prevention regulatory focus) or pleasure pursuit (i.e., pleasure promotion regulatory focus). Extending recent research, results of a cross-sectional study with participants living in Portugal and Spain (N = 770) showed that these individual differences resulted in a trade-off between potential health risks and pleasure rewards in sexual practices and experiences with casual partners. Specifically, people who were more focused on promotion (vs. prevention) reported riskier and more unrestricted sexual activities (more frequent condomless sex activities; more casual partners) and experienced more positive sexual outcomes (more sexual satisfaction; more positive and less negative affect related to condomless sex). This pattern of results remained the same after controlling for country differences, suggesting the robustness of our findings across different cultural contexts. Our study shows the complexity of sexual decisions and align with our reasoning that prevention-focused people tend to prioritize health safety, whereas promotion-focused people tend to prioritize sexual pleasure. Theoretical and applied implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the predictors of consistent condom use among male construction workers in South Africa who reported concurrent sexual relationships with regular partners, casual partners, and sex workers over a 3-month period. A cross-sectional survey was used to collect data from a convenience sample of 450 male workers across 18 construction work sites in the Western Cape province. Of these, 245 (54%) indicated that they had engaged in sex with all three partner types during the 3-month study period. Hierarchical multiple linear regression was then used to assess consistent condom use as a function of demographic, experiential, behavioural and cognitive characteristics. Three statistically significant predictors of consistent condom use were identified: perceived control over condom use (β = 0.252, p < 0.001), positive attitude toward condom use (β = 0.154, p < 0.05) and fear of HIV infection (β = 0.121, p < 0.05). These findings highlight the high prevalence of sexual concurrency among study participants. It also suggests that amid declining condom use, interventions which focus on enhancing an individuals' condom application skills and efficacy, that foster positive attitudes toward condom use and that strategically incorporate fear-based messaging within a multilevel framework may potentially increase condom use among individuals in concurrent sexual relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving communication between American Indian caregivers and their youth has been suggested as an Indigenous-forward strategy to help alleviate the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) disparities faced by American Indian youth as a result of the legacy of colonial violence against American Indian communities. Studies with non-American Indian and American Indian populations suggest that effective communication about SRH between parents and youth plays a role in reducing sexual risk behaviors among youth. There is limited research that examines youth sexual risk behaviors in relation to communication patterns separately assessed in caregivers and youth. The current study aimed to examine the association between caregiver-youth communication patterns and engagement in sex, age at sexual debut, and condom use among American Indian youth in the United States. The study draws on baseline caregiver and youth data collected from Nen ŨnkUmbi/EdaHiYedo, a stepped wedge design trial with American Indian youth living on the Fort Peck Reservation in Montana. 113 caregiver responses were matched to 145 youth for the current study. Caregiver-youth communication patterns were examined in relation to youth engagement in sex, age at sexual debut, and number of protected acts of vaginal and/or anal sex. Multivariable models were used to adjust for confounders and to examine relationships between caregiver-youth communication and youth sexual risk outcomes. An increase in overall level of self-reported youth communication with caregivers about sexual and reproductive health topics was significantly associated with a greater likelihood of youth ever having engaged in sex. A significant interaction effect between youth communication and convergence with caregiver response was observed for the number of protected acts of vaginal and/or anal sex, where caregiver communication (regardless of self-reported youth communication with caregivers) was associated with a greater number of protected sex acts. This study fills a gap in the extant literature by reporting on relationships between communication about SRH, assessed separately in caregivers and youth, and youth sexual risk behaviors. Findings emphasize the importance of involving American Indian caregivers in SRH interventions to improve SRH outcomes among American Indian youth, and inform future experimental research that will evaluate how changes in caregiver communication potentially impact youth SRH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2019 the For The Assessment Of Individualised Risk (FAIR) project began a review of UK blood donor selection policy to determine if a more individualised approach to donor selection could be safely implemented. An evidence base was required to inform selection policy to move from a population to a more individual based policy, specifically what sexual behaviours/indicators should be considered as screening questions to maintain the safety of the blood supply. Eight sexual behaviours/indicators were reviewed: history of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs), chemsex, number of recent partners, condom use, type of sex, sexual health service (SHS) attendance, new sexual partner and exclusivity. We conducted searches in multiple databases to identify literature looking at the association between these behaviours/indicators and HIV/STI acquisition risk. A scoring system to determine strength of evidence was devised and applied to papers that passed screening. Key studies were identified which achieved the maximum score and more in‐depth reviews were conducted for these. We identified 58 studies, including 17 key studies. Strong evidence was found linking a previous bacterial STI, chemsex and increasing numbers of sexual partners to acquisition risk. Condom use, type of sex and new partners were found to have some strength of evidence for this link. SHS attendance and exclusivity had minimal evidence. We recommended that the behaviours/indicators viewed as having strong or some strength of evidence should be considered as screening questions in a more individualised approach to donor selection criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sexual protective behaviors, such as consistent condom use and intention, are important preventative measures against the transmission of HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections. Current sexual health research has yet to explore the interaction between contextual factors, such as gendered racial microaggressions, and the role of personal factors (i.e., body appreciation) on Black women's sexual risk and protective behaviors in the United States. Guided by objectification theory, we hypothesized that sexually objectifying gendered racial microaggressions moderated the body appreciation and condom use behaviors relationship. Participants: The current study consisted of 114 Black emerging adult women in the southern United States. Results: Results showed significant interactions between the frequency of sexually objectifying gendered racial microaggressions and body appreciation on consistent condom use and condom use intention. Conclusion: Overall, these findings suggested the need for sexual health researchers and interventionists to further explore the influence of gendered racial microaggressions and body appreciation on condom use behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The systematic review published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Medicine focuses on outcomes reporting in clinical trials of Chinese herbal medicine for ulcerative colitis (UC). The study highlights the challenges in standardizing outcome measures due to the lack of agreed-upon evaluation criteria, such as those in Chinese medicine. The review aims to summarize existing endpoint definitions, measurement tools, and efficacy outcomes reported in randomized controlled trials of Chinese herbal medicine for UC, emphasizing the need for a core outcome set to reduce heterogeneity and enhance study quality. The study included 1247 randomized controlled trials published between 2011 and 2022, with outcomes categorized into domains such as clinical composite outcomes, safety outcomes, CM symptoms/patterns outcomes, and others. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Although some studies have found a link between dating apps and sociodemographic variables, sexual attitudes, and sexual risk behaviors, few studies in Spain have explored these relationships. This study analyzes the relationship between the use of dating apps and these variables in this country. Method: A total of 2288 people aged between 18 and 35 years completed a questionnaire, which, in addition to sociodemographic variables, contained questions on the use of dating apps, a measure of attitudes toward online sexual behaviors, and indicators of sexual risk behaviors. Results: The percentage of men using dating apps is higher than that of women, and the percentage of LGB users is higher than that of heterosexuals. In addition, users have more positive attitudes toward online sexual behavior than non-users. In general, users are also found to have more sexual partners than non-users, although they more frequently use condoms for vaginal intercourse and anal sex. Conclusion: The present study provides evidence for the relationship between the use of dating apps and certain variables in Spain. Policy Implications: Dating apps do not have to be equated with sexual risk, but condom use should continue to be encouraged, especially among those who have multiple sexual partners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Condoms have proven to be an effective contraceptive barrier method of family planning and have played a vital role in preventing sexually transmitted diseases including HIV. However, existing evidence shows that utilization of condoms remains low, especially among youth and adolescents. We aimed to determine the condom use rate and associated factors among the students of Gulu University in Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate students of Gulu University between June and December 2023. The students were accessed from their respective faculties and chosen using a simple random sampling method. Data were collected using a pretested self-administered structured questionnaire. Condom use was defined as use of either male or female condom in any sexual encounter within the previous six months. Results: A total of 404 participants, with a median age of 23 years (interquartile range (21.5–24) years) were enrolled in this study, 54.2% (n = 219) of whom were men. The response rate of the respondents was 94.1%. Overall, 81.4% (n = 329) of the participants were in senior classes (year 2, 3, 4, and 5), and 18.6% (n = 75) were in their first year of study. The condom use rate was 53.7% (n = 217). Condom use rate was 50.2% (n = 109) among male and 49.8% (n = 108) among female students. Sex (men) (aPR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.71, 0.95, p = 0.01), nature of sexual relationship (married) (aPR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.07, 1.85, p < 0.015), place of HIV testing (University health unit) (aPR =1.22, 95% CI = 1.06, 1.41, p = 0.005), and having sex in the absence of condoms (aPR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.01, 1.46, p = 0.021) were significantly associated with consistent condom use. Conclusions: Just over half of undergraduate students of Gulu University used condoms in their sexual encounters in the past six months. There should be heightened campaigns on condom use to prevent unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.

The original article can be found online at https://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-024-03428-x.Correction: BMC Women's Health 24, 592 (2024)https://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-024-03428-xFollowing the publication of the original article [[1]], it was discovered that Panel B in Figure 2 was omitted. The corrected Figure 2 is presented below.Incorrect Fig. 2GraphCorrect Fig. 2GraphBy Alexandra A. Cordeiro; Louisa Moorhouse; Tawanda Dadirai; Rufurwokuda Maswera; Angela Y. Chang; Constance Nyamukapa and Simon GregsonReported by Author; Author; Author; Author; Author; Author; Author [Extracted from the article]

Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is widespread in the WHO African region with generalised HIV epidemics and may contribute to ongoing HIV transmission through its associations with behaviours associated with HIV acquisition risk and low use of prevention methods particularly in marital relationships. Methods: We conducted a male condom HIV prevention cascade analysis using data from a general-population survey in Manicaland, Zimbabwe (July 2018-December 2019) to develop an understanding of how interventions that reduce IPV might be built upon to also reduce HIV incidence. Multivariable logistic regression was used to measure associations between currently-married HIV-negative women's experience of IPV and: (1) being in the priority population for HIV prevention methods (i.e. married women engaging in behaviours associated with HIV acquisition risk or with a spouse who engages in similar behaviours or is living with HIV), and (2) male condom use by women in this priority population. Male condom HIV prevention cascades, with explanatory barriers for gaps between successive cascade bars (motivation, access and effective use), were compared for women in the priority population reporting and not reporting IPV. Results: We found a positive association between IPV and being in the priority population for HIV prevention methods (72.3% versus 58.5%; AOR = 2.26, 95% CI:1.74–2.93). Condom use was low (< 15%) for women in the priority population and did not differ between those reporting and not reporting IPV. The HIV prevention cascades for women reporting and not reporting IPV were similar; both showing large gaps in motivation and capacity to use male condoms effectively. Women reporting motivation and access to male condoms were more likely to report their partner being a barrier to condom use if they experienced IPV (84.8% versus 75.5%; AOR = 2.25, 95% CI:1.17–4.31). Conclusion: The findings of this study support the case for trials of integrated IPV/HIV prevention interventions that are tailored to improve HIV risk perception among HIV-negative married women and to make condom provision more acceptable for this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the level of awareness of the population, an HIV/AIDS model is developed, which focused on the first 95% plan developed by UNAIDS. The threshold R0$$ {R}_0 $$ of model and the expressions of the disease‐free equilibrium and the endemic equilibrium are calculated, proving the existence of backward bifurcation. Backward bifurcation is caused by the imperfect protection rate of susceptible population due to education. Using China's actual data for parameter fitting, it is found that new HIV infections are on an upward trend. In response to this phenomenon, publicity and education, condoms, screening, and treatment of infected populations are considered as control measures. It is concluded that publicity and education is the primary strategy. This measure can not only effectively reduce the number of infected populations but also effectively increase the awareness rate of HIV‐infected populations. It is recommended to use condoms and have fewer sexual partners during sexual contact. Numerical simulation verifies that early stage publicity and education are much more important than post‐infection screening and treatment measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are the most often reported infectious disorders in the world. Sexual intercourse with an infected partner is the most significant risk factor for STIs.1Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major global health concern, with serious co-morbidities and mortality rates. Objectives: 1. To identify the aetiology of ulcerative STIs among hospital patients. 2. To study the HIV and GUD co-infection 3. To study the prevalence of contacts and partners 4. To Identify different factors influencing genital ulcer diseases Material & Methods: Study Design: Hospital-based, cross-sectional study. Study area: The study was conducted in the Department of OBG & Microbiology of a Medical College, in Kolkata. Study period: 1st July 2023 to 30th June 2024. Study tools and Data collection procedure: The project was evaluated and approved by the ethics committee, of the institution. Written, informed consent was obtained from each participant at the time of enrolment in the study, and sociodemographic characteristics were recorded. Detailed sexual exposure history was taken of each individual including sexual partners, sexual behavior, and sexual practices. Only strongly suspected cases of ulcers of STD origin were studied after thorough clinical examination. Results: Out of 51 cases who used condoms, in 22 cases (18.3%) aetiology was identified. Whereas out of 69 cases who did not use condoms, in 62 cases (51.6%) aetiology was diagnosed. So, in condom used cases, the incidence of GUD was 43% whereas in condom not used cases, the incidence of GUD was 89.8%. This shows the impact of condom use in preventing genital ulcers. The present study included 4 cases from the high-risk group, Men having sex with men (MSM) 3 cases and female sex workers (FSW) 1 cases. These patients presented with genital ulcers and were diagnosed. Conclusion: This study concluded that eliminating bacterial GUDs caused an increase in cases of Viral GUDs (Genital Herpes). The presence of GUD increases HIV susceptibility, hence proper and regular use of latex condoms is required to avoid the transfer of STIs. Laboratory tests detected GUDs with numerous etiologies that had previously gone undetected clinically. This aids in the identification of cases and allows patients to obtain proper and appropriate care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Understanding the impact of natural disasters on the HIV epidemic in populations with high HIV burden is critical for the effective delivery of HIV control efforts. We assessed HIV risk behaviors, seroprevalence, and viral suppression in a high HIV prevalence Lake Victoria fishing community before and after COVID-19 emergence and lockdown and a severe lake flooding event, both of which occurred in 2020. Methods: We used data from the largest Lake Victoria fishing community in the Rakai Community Cohort Study, an open population-based HIV surveillance cohort in south-central Uganda. The data were collected both prior to (September-December 2018) and after (October-December 2021) COVID-19 emergence and a severe flooding event. Households impacted by flooding were identified via drone data and through consulting village community health workers. The entire study population was subject to extensive COVID-19-related lockdowns in the first half of 2020. Differences in HIV-related outcomes before and after COVID, and between residents of flooded and non-flooded households, were assessed using a difference-in-differences statistical modeling approach. Findings: A total of 1,226 people participated in the pre- and post-COVID surveys, of whom 506 (41%) were affected by flooding. HIV seroprevalence in the initial period was 37% in flooded and 36.8% in non-flooded households. After the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown, we observed a decline in HIV-associated risk behaviors: transactional sex declined from 29.4% to 24.8% (p = 0.011), and inconsistent condom use with non-marital partners declined from 41.6% to 37% (p = 0.021). ART coverage increased from 91.6% to 97.2% (p<0.001). There was 17% decline in transactional sex (aPR = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.75–0.92) and 28% decline in the overall HIV risk score (aPR = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.75–0.92) among HIV-seronegative participants. We observed no statistically significant differences in changes of HIV risk behavior, seroprevalence, or viral suppression outcomes when comparing those affected by floods to those not affected by floods, in the periods before and after COVID-19, based on difference-in-differences analyses. Interpretation: Despite a high background burden of HIV, the COVID-19 pandemic, and severe flooding, we observed no adverse impact on HIV risk behaviors, seroprevalence, or virologic outcomes. This may be attributed to innovative HIV programming during the period and/or population resilience. Understanding exactly what HIV programs and personal or community-level strategies worked to maintain good public health outcomes despite extreme environmental and pandemic conditions may help improve HIV epidemic control during future natural disaster events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Female sex workers (FSWs) in Mozambique face significant health risks, including high HIV prevalence, combination of factors, including inconsistent condom use, engagement in risky sexual behaviors, and various socio-ecological determinants of health. Understanding the determinants of these practices is crucial for developing targeted interventions. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the second round of Biobehavioral Survey (BBS) conducted from 2019 to 2020 in five urban areas to examine determinants of inconsistent condom use and risky sexual behaviors among FSWs. Modified Poisson regression models were used to assess the effect of various socio-demographic, economic, and behavioral factors on the outcomes, providing adjusted relative risk (aRR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Among the 2,565 FSWs who reported inconsistent condom use, younger FSWs (15–24 years old, 29.1%), single (27.3%), with secondary or higher education (26.1%), nationals (25.9%), and residents of Tete City (30.5%) had a higher prevalence of inconsistent condom use. Initiating sex work < 18 years (31.0%), binge drinking (23.7%), and experiencing physical violence (29.0%) were significantly associated with this behavior. Among the 2,564 FSWs reporting risky sexual behaviors, a higher prevalence was observed in FSWs aged 15–24 (75.6%), those with secondary or higher education (75.8%), nationals (74.4%), and those residing in Quelimane (87.3%). Early sexual debut (< 15 years, 79.3%), initiating sex work before 18 years of age (77.7%), and illicit drug use (82.2%) were all associated with increased risky sexual practices. Inconsistent condom use among FSWs was significantly associated with residing in Tete (aRR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.77–3.25), not being aware of female condom (aRR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.03–1.45) and having experienced sexual a physical violence. Moreover, being married was significantly linked to risky sexual behavior among female sex workers (aRR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.19–1.37), along with initiating sexual activity before age 15, having at least five years of sex work experience, engaging in binge drinking, and experiencing sexual and physical violence. Conclusion: The study highlights the complex set of factors as age, education, geographic location, years of sex work services, early sexual debut, and illicit drug use that influence sexual risks behavior among FSWs in Mozambique. Tailored interventions addressing not only sexual health education and services, but also economic empowerment and illicit drug use is imperative for mitigating these risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Without effective, scalable interventions, we will fail to achieve the Global AIDS Targets of zero AIDS‐related deaths, zero HIV transmission and zero discrimination. This study examines associations of social protection and food security among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV), with three Global AIDS Targets aligned outcomes: antiretroviral treatment (ART) adherence and viral suppression, HIV transmission risk behaviour and enacted stigma. Methods: We conducted three study visits over 2014−2018 with 1046 ALHIV in South Africa's Eastern Cape province. Standardized surveys provided information on receipt of government‐provided cash transfers and past‐week food security, alongside self‐reported ART adherence, sexual debut and condom use, and enacted HIV‐related stigma. Viral load (VL) data was obtained through data extraction from patient files and linkage with National Health Laboratory Service test results (2014−2020). We used a multivariable random‐effects regression model to estimate associations between receiving government cash transfers and food security and three outcomes: ART adherence and viral suppression, delayed sexual debut or consistent condom use and no enacted stigma. We tested moderation by sex and age and fitted disaggregated models for each outcome. Results: Among the 933 ALHIV completing all three study visits, 55% were female, and the mean age was 13.6 years at baseline. Household receipt of a government cash transfer was associated with improvements on all outcomes: ART adherence and viral suppression (aOR 2.03, 95% CI 1.29−3.19), delayed sexual debut or consistent condom use (aOR 1.62, 95% CI 1.16−2.27) and no enacted stigma (aOR 2.33, 95% CI 1.39−3.89). Food security was associated with improvements on all outcomes: ART adherence and viral suppression (aOR 1.73, 95% CI 1.30−2.30), delayed sexual debut or consistent condom use (aOR 1.30, 95% CI 1.03−1.64) and no enacted stigma (aOR 1.91, 95% CI 1.32−2.76). Receiving both cash transfers and food security increased the probability of ART adherence and VL suppression from 36% to 60%; delayed sexual debut or consistent condom use from 67% to 81%; and no enacted stigma from 84% to 96%. Conclusions: Government‐provided cash transfers and food security, individually and in combination, are associated with improved outcomes for ALHIV aligned with Global AIDS Targets. They may be important, and underutilized, accelerators for achieving these targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cervical cancer continues to be a major health issue in low- and middleincome countries (LMICs). Despite increasing access to screening, access to precancer treatment remains a significant challenge in LMICs, highlighting a need for innovative, accessible and resource-appropriate treatment approaches, including self-administered therapies. Methods: A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted among men aged 25-65 with a current female partner in Kisumu County, Kenya. Participants were sequentially recruited and surveyed to evaluate their understanding of human papillomavirus and cervical cancer, their views on screening and treatment and their attitudes toward self-administered therapies. Focus group discussions (FGDs) with a subset of the survey participants further explored their treatment preferences and perceptions. Results: Two hundred fourteen men participated in the survey, and 39 men participated in FGDs. The median age was 39 years, and 51% had a primary school education or less. Most (96%) were in a committed relationship, and 74% earned $10 or less daily. There was strong support for self-administered topical therapies, with 98% willing to support their partners using such treatments if available. Additionally, most participants were open to supporting necessary abstinence or condom use, though 76% believed their partners might hesitate to request condom use. When given an option, most preferred their partner to self-administer such therapies at home compared to provider administration at a health facility, citing convenience, cost-effectiveness and privacy. Preferences varied between two potential therapies, 5-Fluorouracil and Artesunate, based on their administration frequency, duration and abstinence requirements. Qualitative findings largely supported the quantitative analysis. Conclusion: The study demonstrates strong support for self-administered topical therapies for cervical precancer among Kenyan men. Additional research on acceptability, feasibility and efficacy in different LMICs could pave the way for these therapies to help bridge current cervical precancer treatment gaps in these settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Canada, the highest increases in rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and substance use disorders occur among emerging adults aged 18 to 29 years old. Most research on risk-taking behaviors have focused on adolescents or males only—especially gay and bisexual men. This study aimed to assess patterns of sexual and substance use risk-taking behavior (i.e., early sexual onset, number of sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, unconventional sexual behaviors, binge-drinking, and polysubstance use); investigate whether sociodemographic and individual characteristics predict risk-taking profiles; and examine whether risk-taking profiles are associated with differential health outcomes (i.e., STI testing and diagnosis, substance use problems). Latent class analyses were conducted on a sample of 602 heterosexual French-Canadian emerging adults (84% female; M age = 22.3) who completed an online questionnaire. Four profiles were identified: inactive low-risk (13.5%), active low-risk (34.7%), mid-risk (42.3%), and high-risk (9.5%). The two higher risk-taking profiles were overrepresented by older participants, females, and impulsive sensation seekers. Participants in the mid- and high-risk profiles had higher odds of having been screened for and been diagnosed with STIs, and of reporting more substance use problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) often use GPS-enabled dating apps and websites to facilitate in-person sexual encounters. Many of these encounters are positive and enjoyable. However, there is limited research on GBMSM's negative experiences with partners from hookup and dating apps/websites, especially those characterized by threats to GBMSM's sexual, physical, and/or psychological safety. In this report, we investigated this matter. We analyzed data from interviews with GBMSM (N = 60) and identified four categories of negative sexual experiences, each of which were comprised by sub-categories: 1) sexual violence (physical sexual assault, verbal sexual coercion, intoxicated assault/coercion), 2) sexual health risk behaviors (condom use resistance and coercion, deception related to HIV/STI status), 3) non-negotiated behaviors (undiscussed/unexpected sex acts, rough sex, sexualized racism, undesired substance use by the partner), and 4) threats to physical safety beyond sexual violence (being blocked from leaving, stalked, robbed, drugged). These results can inform future research and interventions that aim to promote safety on dating apps/websites within the GBMSM community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We explored participants' experiences in a randomized controlled trial that evaluated the Home-Based Intervention Strategy (HIS-UK) to improve male condom use skills/experiences. Methods: 25 men (18–25 years) who had reached the first 6 months of the intervention were interviewed. We used a codebook approach to thematic analysis to analyze the data. Results: Four themes were identified: Perceived benefits of online versus in-clinic recruitment; Perceptions of the educational content; Benefits of the condom kit; Acceptability of condom testing and monthly questionnaire. Conclusion: Participants valued the intervention, especially the condom kit that provided a range of different condoms and lubricants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Mouthwash is a commonly used product with the potential to prevent STIs. This study aimed to determine the association between mouthwash use frequency with sexual behaviours and STIs among Chinese men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among MSM in Xi'an, China, from January to September 2022. Participants were categorised into non-mouthwash users, occasional (used it less than once every week) and frequent (used it more than once every week) mouthwash users. Multinomial logistic regression was performed to identify the association between mouthwash use frequency with sexual behaviours. Results. Of 838 MSM included in the analysis, 621 (74.11%) reported never using mouthwash, whereas 47 (5.60%) used it occasionally and 170 (20.29%) used it frequently. Frequent mouthwash users had a lower prevalence of chlamydia compared with occasional users (8.33% vs 23.93%, P < 0.05). In comparison with participants who consistently used condoms, those who used condoms occasionally and never used condoms were 1.8 (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.838, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.011-3.375) and 4.5 (aOR 4.538, 95% CI 1.259-16.362) times more likely to be frequent mouthwash users, respectively. Participants with more sexual partners who engaged in kissing (aOR 1.060, 95% CI 1.019-1.103), receptive oral sex (aOR 1.065, 95% CI 1.024-1.108), insertive oral sex (aOR 1.043, 95% CI 1.014-1.072) and receptive anal sex (aOR 1.076, 95% CI 1.027-1.127) were more likely to be frequent mouthwash users. Conclusion. MSM with more sexual partners or lower condom use frequency were more likely to be frequent mouthwash users. However, frequent mouthwash users had a lower chlamydia prevalence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: HIV remains a significant global public health issue, claiming 36.3 million lives worldwide. In 2020, approximately 1.75 million adolescents aged 10-19 were living with HIV globally, with sub-Saharan Africa accounting for 88% of these cases. Tanzania has a national HIV prevalence of 4.8% among individuals aged 15-49, with the Njombe region reporting the highest prevalence at 11.4%. Despite efforts to combat HIV, adolescents often receive less focus in intervention programs, resulting in inadequate adolescent-friendly services and low HIV testing coverage. This study aimed to assess the barriers to HIV prevention among adolescents in Njombe, focusing on their knowledge and access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) services. Methods: A descriptive research approach was used, targeting adolescents aged 15-19 from Agnes Trust and Mpechi secondary schools in Ramadhani and Mji Mwema wards. A total of 155 students were selected through purposive sampling. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using STATA version 17. Results: The study revealed that 67.1% of adolescents had good knowledge of HIV prevention, with females demonstrating slightly better knowledge (70.11%) than males (63.24%). However, only 69.68% had access to SRHR services, with counselling and testing (31.61%) and health education (30.97%) being the most common services received. Despite this, condom use remained low, with only 3.7% taking condoms during SRHR service participation. Conclusion: While adolescents in Njombe have a good understanding of HIV prevention, there are significant gaps in the consistent use of preventive measures like condoms. Enhanced community awareness, better access to SRHR services, and targeted interventions for male adolescents are recommended to address these gaps and reduce HIV prevalence among adolescents in the region. Further research is needed to explore additional factors contributing to the high HIV prevalence in Njombe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Apart from HIV acquisition, men who have sex with men are at a higher risk of sexually transmitted infections, especially syphilis. Although the intersection between syphilis and HIV poses a formidable challenge among key populations who are known to be vulnerable to many health threats, there is little known about syphilis infection among MSM living with HIV in Ghana. This study seeks to investigate the burden of syphilis and address the existing knowledge gap by exploring behavioral, healthcare access, and structural factors influencing the syphilis burden within the HIV-positive MSM population. Method: This study was conducted in 2023 as part of the bio-behavioral survey (BBS) among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Ghana. A cross-sectional survey that used a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) approach was conducted in the old ten regions of Ghana. Data was collected on 3,420 participants, however, 857 HIV-positive MSM were included in this study since it focused on syphilis among HIV-positive MSM in Ghana. The study estimated the prevalence of syphilis among MSM living with HIV and provided a 95% confidence interval across different categories of explanatory variables. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with overall syphilis prevalence. All other analyses were weighted due to the complex design of the study. Results: The overall prevalence of syphilis was 23.83% (95% CI: 20.44, 27.58). HIV-positive men who only had sex with men had a 29.77% (95% CI: 23.90, 36.40) prevalence of syphilis compared to a prevalence of 9.50% (95% CI: 2.56, 29.53) recorded by HIV-positive MSM who were attracted to mostly females. Participants who ever had receptive anal sex recorded a higher prevalence 26.79% (95% CI: 22.78, 31.23) than those who never had receptive anal sex 12.86% (95% CI: 8.02, 19.99). The odds of syphilis among HIV-positive MSM who never used condoms with regular sex partners in the last 6 months were 41.08 (aOR: 41.08 at 95% CI 1.24–136.42; p = 0.038). Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of syphilis among HIV-positive men who have sex with men in Ghana, especially among those who engage in unprotected anal sex and have multiple sexual partners. Our findings underscore the dire need for targeted interventions to address the dual brunt of HIV and syphilis among the MSM population in Ghana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: HIV/AIDS has emerged as a nationwide epidemic and has taken the forefront position as the primary infectious killer of adults in China. The control and prevention of the disease have been hampered by a weak link in the form of heterosexual transmission. However, conventional intervention measures have demonstrated suboptimal efficacy in reducing the incidence of new HIV infections. In light of the current epidemiological characteristics, we have developed and executed an innovative intervention model known as the Joint Prevention and Control Mechanism of the 'CDC-Public Security Bureau-NGO'. The purpose of this research is to assess the impact of this model on the AIDS awareness, HIV infection rates, sexual behavior, and associated factors among female sex workers and elderly clients. Through the provision of robust evidence of the efficacy of this innovative model, we seek to advocate for its implementation in future interventions. Methods: The research design of this study incorporates both a serial cross-sectional study and time-series analysis from 2014 to 2021, including a 4-year traditional intervention (2014–2017) and the 4-year 'CDC-Public Security Bureau-NGO' innovative intervention (2018–2021), was conducted to evaluate the effects of the new intervention. The GM(1, 1) model was performed to predict the proportion of HIV infection without implementing the innovative intervention in 2018–2021; P and C values were used to evaluate the performance of the model. Mann-Kendall test and descriptive methods were used to analyzed the trend of traditional and innovative interventions models on HIV positive detection rate in FSWs and elderly clients. Results: The condom usage rates during the last commercial sexual encounter for FSWs and elderly clients improved from 74.9% and 9.1%, respectively, to 96.9% and 28.1%. (P < 0.05), newly reported cases of HIV have decreased by 15.56% yearly and the HIV positive detection rate among middle-aged and elderly people has dropped by 14.47%. The innovative intervention model has significantly reduced the HIV infection rates. Conclusions: The 'CDC-Public Security Bureau-NGO' innovative intervention has achieved beneficial effects on HIV/AIDS prevention and control and provides a good reference for Guangxi, China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore their perceptions and attitudes toward condom use and the underlying reasons for the low usage frequency among Chinese older adults. Methods: A qualitative study design utilizing interpretive phenomenological analysis was employed. Data were collected through field observation and face‐to‐face in‐depth interviews among older adults aged 50 years or above and having engaged in sexual activities within the previous year. Results: Three main themes emerged: perceiving unnecessary due to misconceptions and low awareness, interactive stereotypes rooted in sociocultural beliefs, and stigmatized social norms including gender inequity and economic unbalance. Conclusions: Tailored interventions focusing on addressing misconceptions, increasing awareness, and reducing culturally ingrained stereotypes and stigma surrounding condom use are essential to promote condom use among older adults in order to prevent HIV transmission in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-condom use is known as one of the risky sexual behaviors among youth and a contributing factor to the high prevalence of HIV in Nigeria. Therefore this study aimed to assess the spatial pattern and determinants of non-condom use among sexually active young people in Nigeria. The study employed a cross-sectional analysis of population-based data involving 288 males and 780 females aged 15–24 years, giving 1068 sexually active young people drawn from the 2018 NDHS. The study adopted a multi-level and spatial analysis to identify factors associated with non-condom use in Nigeria. The prevalence of non-condom use was 57.7% in this study. The spatial analysis showed that the Northeastern and South–South regions of Nigeria had a high proportion of non-condom use among young people, while the Northwest, North-Central, and Southwestern parts had low proportions of non-condom use. On multilevel analysis, the individual and community level factors associated with non-condom use included exposure to media (AOR 0.59; 95% CI 0.39–0.91) and younger age (AOR 0.72; 95% CI 0.53–0.98). Areas with a high proportion of non-condom use should receive the most attention through the promotion of condom use and education, alongside a focus on important associated factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]