Exploring the Clinical Variables among Drug-Dependent HIV-Positive Patients: Implications for Treatment Strategies

This study explored the profile of HIV positive patients seeking treatment at a tertiary care addiction treatment facility. A retrospective study was done to collet detailed information on clinical characteristics: drug use (type, age of initiation, duration), general medical condition and past treatment history. The study included 138 patients with mean (SD) age 30.2 (8.3) years. Opioid dependence with injecting drug use (IDU) was diagnosed in 97% of the patients. The median age of injecting onset was 24.5 years (IQR 20-31 years). The most frequently injected substances were pheniramine (60.1%) and buprenorphine (59.4%). Past treatment seeking was reported by 57% patients and interestingly they were less likely to present any medical condition (2 =69.611, p < 0.001). Variability in the age of onset of drug use indicates the need for broad based approach to prevent IDU and motivation to seek treatment may lead to better health conditions.

Percepciones asociadas a conductas sexuales de riesgo / Perceptions associated with risky sexual behaviors

Resumen: Objetivo: Identificar en un grupo de jóvenes tabasqueños las percepciones asociadas con conductas sexuales de riesgo. Material y métodos: Se trata de un estudio mixto y transversal, realizado con un muestreo no probabilístico a conveniencia de 60 personas, quienes cumplían con los criterios de inclusión (18-25 años) pertenecientes al estado de Tabasco, 30 hombres y 30 mujeres. Se les aplicó la encuesta de salud y hábitos sexuales. Resultados: Las mujeres señalaron como sus mayores fuentes de educación sexual a los médicos (30%) y a sus madres (23%); mientras que, en el grupo de los hombres, fueron médicos, amistades, libros, etc. Para la percepción de riesgo de contraer VIH con el comportamiento sexual actual, los hombres percibieron mayor riesgo de contagio que las mujeres. Relacionado con las medidas que protegen del VIH, el uso del preservativo fue el método identificado como el más seguro, tanto en hombres (96.66%) como en mujeres (100%). En segundo lugar, se reconoció la opción "hacerse pruebas con frecuencia"; sin embargo, el 65% señaló nunca haberse realizado la prueba de VIH. Acerca del uso de los preservativos, en ambos grupos, predominaron respuestas, tales como, "son complicados de usar", "crean desconfianza en la pareja", entre otras. Sobre la percepción de los mecanismos a través de los cuales se podría adquirir el VIH, los 60 (100%) encuestados marcaron que el VIH se transmite a través de las relaciones sexuales; sin embargo, la opción "por picadura de mosquito" fue elegida por 3 (10%) hombres y una mujer (3.33%). Conclusiones: Las percepciones erróneas pueden ser determinantes para acceder a prácticas sexuales inseguras. Identificar las percepciones equivocadas, las fuentes, calidad y veracidad de la información en temas de sexualidad, así como los factores de riesgo y de protección, puede servir para diseñar intervenciones psicoeducativas eficientes, como estrategia de prevención para los adolescentes y los jóvenes.

Abstract: Objective: To identify youth perceptions associated to risky sexual behaviors in a group of teenagers from Tabasco. Material and methods: It is a mixed, cross-sectional study with a non-probabilistic sampling which was carried out at the convenience of 60 people who met the inclusion criteria (18-25 years old) belonging to the state of Tabasco, consisting of 30 women and 30 men. Health and sexual habits surveys were applied to them. Results: Women indicated doctors (30%) and their mothers (23%) as their main sources of sexual education; while, in the group of men, they referred to doctors, friends, books, etc. For the perception of risk of acquiring HIV with current sexual behavior, men perceived a higher risk of infection in comparison to women. In relation of measures that protect against HIV, the use of condoms was identified as the safest method, both in men (96.66%) and in women (100%). The second safest option they referred to was "to get tested frequently"; however, 65% reported never having an HIV test in the past. Regarding the use of condoms, in both groups, responses predominated, such as, "they are difficult to use", "they create mistrust in the partner", among others. Concerning about the perception of mechanisms through which HIV could be acquired, 60 participants (100%) indicated that HIV is transmitted through sexual intercourse; however, the option "by mosquito bite" was chosen by 3 men (10%) and one woman (3.33%). Conclusions: Wrongful perceptions can be decisive in the practice of unsafe sexual practices. Identifying misperceptions, sources, quality and veracity of information on sexuality issues, as well as risk and protective factors, can be useful to design efficient psychoeducational interventions as a prevention strategy for adolescents and the youth.

Diseño y validación de la Escala de Percepción del Riesgo para Conducta Sexual en jóvenes ecuatorianos / Design and validation of the Risk Perception Scale for Sexual Behavior in Ecuadorian Youth

Resumen Introducción: Ser capaces de percibir el riesgo que suponen algunas conductas se asocia a la toma de decisiones protectoras y promotoras de la salud. A pesar de que esta relación es consistente en el caso de comportamientos sexuales, no existe un instrumento culturalmente adaptado al contexto ecuatoriano que evalúe este tipo de percepciones en adolescentes y jóvenes. El objetivo del estudio fue diseñar la "Escala de Percepción del Riesgo para Conducta Sexual en jóvenes ecuatorianos" y analizar sus propiedades psicométricas. Método: Participaron 1822 estudiantes universitarios, con edades entre 16 y 25 años. La escala final contiene 27 ítems. Resultados: El análisis factorial exploratorio determinó la presencia de cuatro subescalas: percepción del riesgo sobre conductas sexuales, percepción del uso del preservativo, conocimiento de los antecedentes sexuales de la pareja y fuente de información sobre sexualidad. El análisis factorial confirmatorio corroboró la estructura factorial con ajuste moderado. Los resultados de la fiabilidad del instrumento arrojaron una consistencia interna excelente. Asimismo, se observó una alta estabilidad, garantizando la fiabilidad test-retest. Conclusión: Se presenta un instrumento fiable y válido para la evaluación de la capacidad de los jóvenes para discernir qué conductas en el marco de la sexualidad podrían suponer un riesgo o una protección para su salud.

Abstract Introduction: Being able to perceive the risk posed by some behaviors is associated with making protective and health-promoting decisions. Although this relationship has been shown to be consistent in the case of sexual behaviors, there is no instrument culturally adapted to the Ecuadorian context that evaluates this type of perceptions in adolescents and young people. The aim of the study was to design the "Risk Perception Scale for Sexual Behavior in Ecuadorian Youth" and analyze its psychometric properties. Method: 1822 university students participated, aged between 16 and 25 years. The final scale contains 27 items. Results: The exploratory factor analysis determined the presence of four subscales: Perception of risk regarding sexual behavior; Perception of condom use; Knowledge of the partner's sexual history and Source of information on sexuality. The confirmatory factor analysis corroborated the factor structure with moderate adjustment. The instrument reliability results showed excellent internal consistency. Likewise, a high stability was observed, guaranteeing test-retest reliability. Conclusion: A reliable and valid instrument is presented for evaluating the ability of young people to discern which behaviors in the context of sexuality could pose a risk or protection to their health.

Comportamentos sexuais durante a pandemia da Covid-19: representações sociais de homens gays e heterossexuais

Objetivo. O presente artigo objetivou comparar as representações sociais (RS) entre grupos de homens gays e heterossexuais sobre os comportamentos sexuais face ao isolamento social decorrente da pandemia da Covid-19. Método. Participaram 200 homens (100 heterossexuais e 100 homossexuais), com médias de idade de 27,06 e 28,12, respectivamente. Utilizou-se um formulário sociodemográfico on-line e uma entrevista semiestruturada com duas perguntas disparadoras para apreensão das RS. Os dados foram analisados pelo software IRAMUTEQ. Resultados. Verificou-se similaridades em ambos os grupos quanto a vida sexual ativa e uso de tecnologias para Sexting e acesso a pornografia. Entretanto, os homossexuais divergem na estrutura representacional ao buscarem estas estratégias compensatórias em maior quantidade, em razão de relacionamentos com pouca duração e/ou pouca união estável. Conclui-se que o distanciamento físico desvela intercorrências heterogêneas à vida afetivo-sexual nessa nova realidade social.

Objective. This article aimed to compare the social representations between groups of gay and heterosexual men about sexual behavior as a result of social isolation from the Covid-19 pandemic. Method. 200 men participated (100 heterosexuals and 100 homosexuals) with average age of 27.06 and 28.12, respectively. A sociodemographic questionnaire was used for sample characterization and a semi-structured interview for the apprehension of SR, with data processed by the IRAMUTEQ software. Results. Similarities were found in both groups in terms of active sex life and the use of technologies for sexing and access to pornography. However, homosexuals diverge in the representational structure when seeking greater compensatory strategies for having more stable civic states. It is concluded that physical distance reveals heterogeneous intercurrences to affective-sexual life in this new social reality.

Comportamentos sexuais de risco, orientação sexual, uso de substâncias e saúde mental: Um estudo de base populacional no Brasil / Risky sexual behaviors, sexual orientation, substance use, and mental health: A population-based study in Brazil

A presente tese trata-se de um estudo de prevalências e associações no âmbito da sexualidade e dos comportamentos sexuais. Foram utilizados os dados do novo módulo de atividade sexual incluído na Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (PNS) em 2019 voltado para a população de 18 anos ou mais de idade (n=85.859). No primeiro artigo, foi traçado um panorama dos comportamentos sexuais de risco na população adulta relacionados ao não uso de preservativo na última relação sexual e à iniciação sexual precoce (antes dos 15 anos). Foram calculadas as prevalências, e respectivos intervalos de confiança (IC), dos desfechos segundo características socioeconômicas, demográficas e regionais da população. Observou-se que a iniciação sexual precoce é mais prevalente entre pessoas das gerações mais novas, com menores níveis de instrução e rendimento domiciliar. O não uso de preservativo foi mais prevalente entre mulheres, mais velhos e casados ou em coabitação. Foram observadas disparidades relevantes no não uso do preservativo entre os sexos no grupo dos que não coabitam com parceiro. No segundo artigo, avaliou-se a associação entre o consumo pesado de álcool e o uso inconsistente de preservativo entre pessoas de 18 a 59 anos solteiras, viúvas ou divorciadas que não coabitavam com parceiro (n=15.835). Foram estimadas razões de prevalências ajustadas (RPa) com modelos de regressão de Poisson estratificados por sexo e grupos de idade. Verificou-se que indivíduos de todas as faixas etárias e ambos os sexos com padrão de consumo pesado de álcool foram significativamente mais propensos ao uso inconsistente de preservativo que os demais. As estimativas obtidas não foram consideradas estatisticamente diferentes entre adultos jovens (RPa 1,32, IC 95%: 1,14-1,54) e de meia idade (RPa 1,31; IC 95%: 1,19-1,44 para pessoas de 25 a 39 e RPa 1,26; IC 95%: 1,13-1,40 para 40 a 59 anos). No terceiro e último artigo da presente tese, o uso de substâncias (álcool e tabaco) e a depressão foram analisados segundo a orientação sexual autoidentificada da população adulta. Foram estimadas as prevalências e razões de prevalência ajustadas por meio de modelos de regressão de Poisson estratificados por sexo para cada um dos desfechos analisados. Após controle por covariáveis, homens gays apresentaram maior prevalência de depressão, uso diário de tabaco e uso nocivo de álcool e tabaco (RPa entre 1,71 e 1,92) e homens bissexuais com maiores prevalências (quase três vezes) de depressão que homens heterossexuais. Mulheres lésbicas apresentaram maior prevalência de binge drinking, heavy drinking, uso diário de tabaco e uso nocivo de álcool e tabaco que mulheres heterossexuais (RPa entre 2,55 e 4,44). Entre as mulheres bissexuais os resultados foram significativos para todos os desfechos analisado (RPa variou entre 1,83 e 3,26). Sendo assim, essa tese fornece evidências relevantes para subsidiar ações em saúde pública que visem a redução de comportamentos sexuais de risco e das disparidades em saúde relacionadas a orientação sexual da população adulta brasileira.

This thesis is a study of prevalence and associations in the scope of sexuality and sexual behavior. Data are from the new module of sexual activity included in the National Health Survey (PNS, for its Portuguese acronym) in 2019, aimed at the population aged 18 and over (n=85,859). In the first article, a panorama of risky sexual behaviors in the adult population related to the non-use of condoms in the last sexual intercourse and early sexual initiation (before 15 years of age) was performed. Prevalence, and respective confidence intervals (CI), of the outcomes were calculated according to socioeconomic, demographic and regional characteristics of the population. It was observed that early sexual initiation is more prevalent among younger generations, with lower education levels and household income. Non-use of condoms was more prevalent among women, older people and married/cohabiting with a partner. Relevant disparities in non-use of condom between the sexes were observed in the non-cohabiting unmarried group. In the second article, the association between heavy alcohol consumption and inconsistent condom use was investigated among unmarried not cohabiting with a partner people aged 18 to 59 years (n=15,835). Adjusted prevalence ratios (APR) were estimated with Poisson regression models stratified by sex and age groups. It was observed that individuals from all age groups and both sexes who have heavy drinking pattern were significantly more likely to inconsistent condom use. The estimates were not considered statistically different between young (APR 1.32, 95% CI: 1.14-1.54) and middle-aged adults (APR 1.31; 95% CI: 1.19-1.44 for aged 25 to 39 and APR 1.26; 95% CI: 1.13-1.40 for aged 40 to 59 years). In the third and last article of this thesis, substance use (alcohol and tobacco) and depression were analyzed according to the self-identified sexual orientation of the adult population. Prevalence and adjusted prevalence ratios were estimated using Poisson regression models stratified by sex for each outcome. After controlling for covariates, gay men had a higher prevalence of depression, daily tobacco use and hazardous use of alcohol and tobacco (APR between 1.71 and 1.92) and bisexual men had a higher prevalence (almost three times) of depression than heterosexual men. Lesbian women had a higher prevalence of binge drinking, heavy drinking, daily tobacco use and hazardous use of alcohol and tobacco than heterosexual women (APR between 2.55 and 4.44). Among bisexual women, the results were significant for all outcomes analyzed (APR ranged between 1.83 and 3.26). Therefore, this thesis provides relevant evidence to support public health actions aimed at reducing risky sexual behavior and health disparities related to sexual orientation in the Brazilian adult population.

Conductas sexuales de riesgo en una muestra de estudiantes universitarios argentinos: relación con consumo de sustancias, inicio sexual temprano e impulsividad rasgo / Risky sexual behaviors in a sample of Argentinean college students: Relationship with substance use, early sexual onset and trait-like impulsivity

Resumen Introducción: Los adultos emergentes universitarios son particularmente vulnerables a presentar consumo abusivo de sustancias y conductas sexuales de riesgo (CSR), lo que incrementa el riesgo de contraer infecciones de transmisión sexual (ITS) o embarazo no deseado. Objetivo: Examinar, en universitarios, si el tipo de consumo de sustancias (alcohol versus uso concurrente de alcohol y marihuana) y el nivel de impulsividad rasgo se asocian con la frecuencia de CSR con parejas ocasionales. Método: Una muestra de 467 estudiantes completó una encuesta online que medía frecuencia de CSR, ocurrencia de consumo de alcohol y de marihuana en el último año y nivel de impulsividad. Resultados: Los consumidores de alcohol y marihuana, comparados con los consumidores de alcohol, reportaron mayor promedio de parejas sexuales al año y mayor arrepentimiento por no cuidarse contra ITS/embarazo. Los participantes con uso concurrente de sustancias, y niveles medios y altos en las facetas de impulsividad, falta de perseverancia y de premeditación, mostraron mayor frecuencia de encuentros sexuales que los consumidores de alcohol o con baja impulsividad. Conclusiones: Los hallazgos sugieren que el uso concurrente de sustancias y ciertas facetas de impulsividad se asocian a una mayor frecuencia de determinadas CSR. Esta información podría ser útil para intervenir preventivamente en CSR en universitarios argentinos.

Abstract Introduction: College students, a subpopulation of emerging adults, are particularly vulnerable to exhibit substance abuse and risky sexual behaviors. These behaviors put people at risk for sexually transmitted infections and/or unwanted pregnancy. Aim: To examine, in college students, whether the pattern of substance use (i.e., alcohol versus co-use of alcohol and marijuana) and the level of impulsivity are associated with the frequency of risky sexual behaviors with occasional partners. Method: A sample of 467 college students completed an online survey that assessed the frequency of risky sexual behaviors, past-year alcohol and marijuana use and trait-like impulsivity. Results: Alcohol/marijuana co-users, compared with alcohol users, reported a higher average of sexual partners per year and greater feelings of regret following careless sexual encounters. Co-users with medium or high levels in lack of perseverance and lack of premeditation (i.e., two facets of impulsivity) reported higher frequency of sexual encounters than alcohol users and/or students with low impulsivity. Conclusions: Findings suggest substance co-use, alongside different facets of impulsivity, are associated with greater frequency of specific risky sexual behaviors. These findings could better inform interventions aimed at prevent risky sexual behaviors in Argentinean college students.

Calidad de la educación sexual recibida en el contexto escolar y su asociación a conductas sexuales en adolescentes chilenos, según datos VIII Encuesta Nacional de la Juventud / Quality of sexual education received in the school context and its association with sexual behaviors in Chilean adolescents, according to data from the VIII National Youth Survey

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la calidad de la educación sexual recibida en el contexto escolar y su asociación a conductas sexuales en adolescentes chilenos. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal y analítico. La muestra correspondió a adolescentes de ambos sexos de 15 a 19 años, se obtuvo de una base de datos con representación nacional. Se evaluó la calidad de la educación sexual recibida en el contexto escolar como buena, regular y mala. Se realizó análisis descriptivo y de asociación entre las variables. Se calculó OR (Odds ratio) y RRR (Relative-risk ratios) ajustado por sexo, edad en años cumplidos, grupo socioeconómico y zona. RESULTADOS: La muestra correspondió a 1.049 adolescentes sexualmente activos, de estos el 21,83% correspondió al grupo con evaluación mala, 44,16% con evaluación regular y 34,01% con evaluación buena. La razón entre adolescentes que no usaron condón en la última relación sexual versus usaron condón, es 1,64 veces mayor en los adolescentes con evaluación mala de la educación sexual recibida (OR: 1,64; IC95%: 1,01 - 2,68). La razón entre adolescentes que tuvieron dos o más parejas sexuales en el último año versus ninguna o una, es 2,15 veces mayor en los adolescentes con evaluación mala de la educación sexual recibida (OR: 2,15; IC95%: 1,30 - 3,56). CONCLUSIÓN: Los participantes de este estudio evalúan la educación sexual recibida mayoritariamente como regular, existiendo una asociación con las conductas sexuales. Es importante realizar estudios en profundidad que permitan conocer por qué los adolescentes evalúan sólo como regular la educación sexual recibida en el sistema escolar.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the quality of the sexual education received in the school context and its association with sexual behaviors in Chilean adolescents. METHODS: Cross-sectional and analytical study. The sample corresponded to adolescents of both sexes from 15 to 19 years old, it was obtained from a database with national representation. The quality of the sexual education received in the school context was evaluated as good, regular and bad. Descriptive and association analysis were performed between the variables. OR (Odds ratio) and RRR (Relative-risk ratios) adjusted for sex, age in completed years, socioeconomic group and area were calculated. RESULTS: The sample corresponded to 1,049 sexually active adolescents, of these, 21.83% corresponded to the group with bad "Evaluation", 44.16% with regular "Evaluation" and 34.01% with good "Evaluation". The ratio among adolescents who did not use a condom in the last sexual relationship versus those who used a condom is 1.64 times higher in adolescents with a poor evaluation of sexual education received (OR: 1.64; 95% CI: 1.01 - 2.68). The ratio among adolescents who had two or more sexual partners in the last year versus those who had neither or one, is 2.15 times higher in adolescents with poor evaluation of sexual education received (OR: 2.15; 95% CI: 1.30 - 3.56). CONCLUSION: The participants of this study evaluate the sexual education received mostly as regular, with an association with sexual behaviors. It is important to conduct in-depth studies that allow us to know why adolescents evaluate the sexual education received in the school system as regular only.

Prevalence of health risk behaviours among the school going adolescents of Gwalior township

Background: The high-risk behaviors are defined as behaviors which threat health and well-being of adolescences, youth and other society’s members. Habits and behaviour that acquired in adolescent have influence in adulthood as well. Health risk behaviors such as alcohol use, smoking, substance use, unsafe driving, unintentional injuries and violence and sexual risk behaviors among adolescents is widely prevalent. Adolescent have tendency to experiments new things, they want to explore new things because of this they have risk taking behavior, this nature is also due to hormonal surge and emotional predominance. The aim and objectives of this study was to estimate the prevalence of health risk behaviors and on the basis of key findings suggest recommendations.Methods: This study is based on self-reported experiences of health risk behavior by school going adolescents. Adolescents are selected by the simple random sampling, and data is collected by the semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire.Results: 26% adolescents experience road traffic accident, 4.5% experience assault. 11% were used to smoke, 9% nonsmoking products, 2.67% uses alcohol some time in their life. 9% adolescents experience symptoms of RTI.Conclusions: Adolescent stage is a period of various changes so they need proper care, support and counseling to cope with this transition phase.

Impact of childhood sexual abuse on risky sexual behaviors among men who have sex with men in Guangzhou / 中华疾病控制杂志

Objective To explore the experience of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Guangzhou, and to evaluate its impact on risky sexual behaviors in adulthood. Methods A non-probability sampling method was used to recruit MSM aged 18 years and over in Guangzhou. Sociodemographic characteristics, experience of CSA and risky sexual behaviors during the past 6 months were collected using an electronic questionnaire. 2 tests were used to compare the prevalence of CSA and risky sexual behaviors during the past 6 months among different sociodemographic characteristics. Logistic regressions were performed to assess the impact of CSA on risky sexual behaviors. Results Overall, 976 MSM were included with an average age of (28.35±6.83) years old. Nearly one-third (26.95%, 263/976) of MSM experienced CSA. Participants having multiple sexual partners (MSP) and unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) during the past 6 months accounted for 61.68% (602/976) and 47.95% (468/976), respectively. After adjusting age, ethnicity, household registration, local residence time, marital status, education, employment status, monthly income and sexual orientation, the results of multivariate Logistic regression showed that MSM who experienced CSA were likely to have MSP during the past 6 months (aOR=1.62; 95%CI: 1.19-2.22) than those did not experience CSA. But the association between UAI and CSA was not statistically significant. Conclusions The prevalence of CSA among MSM in Guangzhou is high. CSA can substantially increase the risk of risky sexual behaviors in adulthood. Intervention to reduce the risk of sexual risk behaviors may need to be tailored for MSM who experienced CSA.

Status and associated factors of recreational drug use among man who have sex with man in Nanjing / 中华疾病控制杂志

Objective To understand the prevalence of synthetic drug use among man who have sex with man (MSM) in Nanjing and the associated factors. Methods MSM were recruited by snow-ball sampling, peer recommendation and network recruitment. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the correlated factors of recreational drug use. Results 29.6% of the 876 MSM ever used recreational drugs. The prevalence of HIV and syphilis infections were 9.5% and 9.0% respectively. After controlling the influence of correlated factors, recreational drug use was correlated with unprotected anal intercourse in the past 6 months(OR=1.83, 95% CI: 1.35-2.47, P<0.001), multiple male sex partnership in the past 6 months(OR=2.25, 95% CI: 1.65-3.05, P<0.001), higher HIV prevalence (OR=1.95, 95% CI: 1.21-3.17, P=0.007) and higher syphilis prevalence(OR=1.71, 95% CI: 1.02-2.84, P=0.040). Multivariate Logistic analysis showed that demographic and behavioral factors associated with recreational drug use including: less than 30 years old (OR=1.50, 95% CI: 1.07-2.11, P=0.020), self-identified as homosexual orientation (OR=1.65, 95% CI: 1.16-2.34, P=0.005), seeking male partners mainly via the internet(OR=1.58, 95% CI: 1.07-2.35, P=0.022), higher monthly income(OR=1.57, 95% CI: 1.13-2.17, P=0.007), receptive sexual role(OR=1.55, 95% CI: 1.04-2.32, P=0.033). Conclusions MSM has a high prevalence of recreational drug use in Nanjing, which was positively correlated with HIV/syphilis infection and high risk behaviors. Intervention efforts should be devoted to reduce and combat drug use among MSM.

Analysis of awareness of HIV/AIDS-related knowledge and related behavior among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Changsha / 中华疾病控制杂志

@# Objective To understand the awareness of HIV/AIDS-related knowledge and characteristics of sexual behaviors among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Changsha City. Methods By a snowball sampling method, volunteers were recruited in two social public welfare organizations in Changsha (Qingcai and Zhongda Sunshine) and interviewed by anonymous electronic questionnaires. Data were analyzed using software SPSS 19.0. Results Among 150 MSM, the overall awareness rate of HIV/ AIDS-related knowledge was 86.0% (129/150). For different demographic characteristics, higher age group, higher education level and higher income groups had significantly higher rates of awareness about HIV/AIDS related knowledge, compared with the reference groups, respectively. For the sexual behaviors, 32.7% of the investigated MSM population had their first MSM sexual intercourse at age of <18 years old, the rate of ≥18 years old group was significantly higher than the <18 years old group (2=4.315, P=0.038), 46.7% of the MSM population had more than 1 sexual partner during the past six months, the ratio of MSM used condoms in the sexual intercourse occasionally or never was 29.3% and 6.7%, respectively. Conclusions Young age, relatively low educational level and low income MSM in Changsha had a relative low awareness of HIV/AIDS-related knowledge. MSM in Changsha City had first MSM sexual intercourse at a very younger age. There is an urgent need to take well-targeted measures to improve the HIV/AIDS-related knowledge with special MSM population, and develop effective intervention measures for the high-risk sexual behaviors among MSM.

Funcionamiento familiar y conducta sexual de riesgo en adolescentes de la comunidad de Yanayacu, 2015-2016 / Family functioning and risky sexual behavior in adolescents in the community of Yanayacu, 2015-2016

Introducción: El inicio de las relaciones sexuales en edades tempranas de la vida supone riesgo biológico, psicológico y social que hacen disfuncionales a muchas familias a nivel mundial. Objetivo: Determinar la influencia del funcionamiento familiar y la conducta sexual de riesgo en adolescentes de la comunidad de Yanayacu. Material y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, relacional, transversal para evaluar la influencia del funcionamiento familiar y la conducta sexual de riesgo en adolescentes de la comunidad de Yanayacu. Resultados: El 49,3 por ciento habían iniciado su vida sexual; las conductas de riesgo identificadas fueron: inicio temprano de la vida sexual, no uso de preservativo y más de dos parejas sexuales con una P < 0,05, según sexo. En cuanto al conocimiento de prevención de estas conductas, mencionaron en su mayoría al preservativo, pero menos de 40 por ciento lo practicaban; 54 por ciento de adolescentes con vida sexual pertenecían a familias disfuncionales y moderadamente funcionales con una tipología familiar ampliada y extensa. Conclusiones: Las familias extensas y ampliadas con una dinámica familiar disfuncional y moderadamente funcional, provocan mayor frecuencia de conductas sexuales de riesgo. El nivel de comunicación, calidez y la cercanía desempeñan un papel muy importante como protectores de estas conductas(AU)

Introduction: The onset of sexual relations at early ages of life involves biological, psychological and social risk that make many families dysfunctional worldwide. Objective: To determine the influence of family functioning and risky sexual behavior among adolescents in the community of Yanayacu. Material and Methods: An observational, relational, cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the influence of family functioning and risky sexual behavior among adolescents in the community of Yanayacu. Results: 49.3 percent had started their sexual life; the risk behaviors identified were: early onset of sexual life, no condom use, and more than two sexual partners with a P <0.05, according to sex. As for prevention knowledge of these behaviors, they mostly mentioned the use of condoms, but less than 40 percent used them; 54 percent of sexually active adolescents belonged to dysfunctional and moderately functional families with an extended family typology. Conclusions: Extended families with dysfunctional and moderately functional family dynamics, cause a greater frequency of risky sexual behaviors. The level of communication, warmth and closeness play a very important role as protectors of these behaviors(AU)

Afectos y conductas sexuales en adolescentes: diferencias y semejanzas en dos culturas, España y Colombia / Sexual feelings and behaviors in adolescents: differences and similarities in two cultures, Spain and Colombia

Resumen Este trabajo pretende identificar las posibles diferencias de género en afectos y conductas sexuales de España y Colombia. La muestra total fue de 508 participantes de centros de educación secundaria, 270 en España y 238 en Colombia, de edades entre los 15 y 18 años y con una media de edad de 16.4 años. Los resultados obtenidos muestran un doble patrón en varones y mujeres, tanto en España como en Colombia, especialmente en relación a los afectos sexuales y no tanto en las conductas sexuales.

Abstract This work aims to identify gender differences in sexual behaviors and feelings between adolescents living in Spain and Colombia. A total of 508 participants from secondary schools, 270 from Spain and 238 from Colombia, took part in this study. The age of the participants ranged from 15 and 18 years. The results showed a double standard for men and women, both in Spain and Colombia, especially in relation to sexual feelings rather than on sexual behavior.

Transiciones a la adultez: exploración sobre las relaciones románticas y normativas de masculinidad de los adolescentes en el Bañado Sur, Asunción / Transitions to adulthood: exploration of romantic relationships and norms of masculinity adolescents in Bañado Sur, Asunción

Introducción: muchas veces los hombres jóvenes se definen a sí mismos y a su identidad masculina a través de relaciones románticas y sexuales; sus decisiones sexuales pueden afectar su transición hacia la madurez, así como la adquisición de infecciones de transmisión sexual, VIH y tasas de embarazos. Objetivo: Este artículo analiza cómo influyen en el modo en que actúan en las relaciones sexuales y románticas y la formación de su identidad masculina, los grupos de amigos de hombres jóvenes paraguayos, sus familias. Metodología: En el 2010 llevamos a cabo cinco charlasen grupo en Asunción, Paraguay, en las que se examinaron las normas comunitarias con grupos de adolescentes entre 14 y 19 años de edad. Luego entrevistamos a la mitad de los miembros de cada grupo para examinar sus relaciones con amigos, la familia, mujeres jóvenes y sus creencias sobre las normas de género existentes. Resultados: Los jóvenes describieron dos tipos de normas masculinas (“pareja/proveedor” y “macho”) y dos tipos de relaciones románticas (“casual” y “formal”). Muchas veces se encontró una concordancia en el lenguaje utilizado para describir cada abanico de conductas, lo que pone de relieve la relación existente entre las normas masculinas y las relaciones románticas.

Introduction: Many times young men define themselves and their male identity through romantic and sexual relationships; their sexual decisions can affect their transition to adulthood as well as the acquisition of sexually transmitted infections, HIV and pregnancy rates. Objective:This article discusses how to influence the waythey act in sexual and romantic relationshipsand the formation of their male identity, groupsof young men Paraguay an friends, their families. Methodology: In 2010 we conducted five talks group in Asuncion, Paraguay, in which Community rules were examined with groups of teenagers between 14 and 19 years old. Then we interviewed half of the members of each group to examine their relationships with friends, family, young women and their beliefs about existing gender norms. Results: Young described two types of male norms(“partner / supplier” and “male”) and two types of romantic relationships (“casual” and “formal”).Many times a match was found in the languageused to describe each range of behaviors, which highlights the relationship between male normsand romantic relationships. The rules received bythe neighborhood as models that were more machobehavior by young people themselves informedcharacteristics. The rules can not be changed unlessyoung people talk about their behavior clearly notnormative. This demonstrates that further studieson the formation, meaning and transformation of male standards are needed.

Prevalence of AIDS-related sexual behaviors and HIV infection status in young men who have sex with men in China: a Meta-analysis / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective To assess the prevalence of AIDS-related sexual behaviors and HIV infection status in young men who have sex with men (YMSM) in China.Methods Literature retrieval was conducted to obtain the related literature indexed by CNKI,Wangfang and PubMed databases from January 2005 to February 2015.Two reviewers independently screened the literature according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria,extracted data and assessed the methodological quality.Meta-analysis was performed by the R software.Results Thirty seven studies involving 32 110 YMSM were included.75.5％ (95％ CI:68.8％-81.2％) YMSM sought sexual partners through Internet and 65.5％ (95％CI:60.0％-70.6％) had more than 2 sexual partners.In the last 6 months,89.1％ (95％ CI:84.2％-92.6％) YMSM had anal intercourse and 42.0％ (95％ CI:37.4％-46.6％) used condom consistently;11.4％ (95％CI:8.4％-15.4％) had vaginal intercourse and 36.9％ (95％CI:32.4％-41.6％) used condom consistently.The pooled prevalence of HIV infection was 5.0％ (95％CI:3.9％-6.5％),sub-group analysis showed that the prevalence of HIV infection in the eastern,central and western China were 4.2％ (95％CI:2.6％-6.6％),1.9％ (95％C1:0.8％-4.6％),6.3％ (95％ CI:4.7％-8.5％),respectively,and there were significant differences among different areas.Conclusion The prevalence of AIDS-related risk sexual behaviors and incidence of HIV infection in YMSM were high in China,it is necessary to conduct AIDS intervention in this population.

Prevalence of AIDS-related sexual behaviors and HIV infection status in young men who have sex with men in China: a Meta-analysis / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective To assess the prevalence of AIDS-related sexual behaviors and HIV infection status in young men who have sex with men (YMSM) in China.Methods Literature retrieval was conducted to obtain the related literature indexed by CNKI,Wangfang and PubMed databases from January 2005 to February 2015.Two reviewers independently screened the literature according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria,extracted data and assessed the methodological quality.Meta-analysis was performed by the R software.Results Thirty seven studies involving 32 110 YMSM were included.75.5％ (95％ CI:68.8％-81.2％) YMSM sought sexual partners through Internet and 65.5％ (95％CI:60.0％-70.6％) had more than 2 sexual partners.In the last 6 months,89.1％ (95％ CI:84.2％-92.6％) YMSM had anal intercourse and 42.0％ (95％ CI:37.4％-46.6％) used condom consistently;11.4％ (95％CI:8.4％-15.4％) had vaginal intercourse and 36.9％ (95％CI:32.4％-41.6％) used condom consistently.The pooled prevalence of HIV infection was 5.0％ (95％CI:3.9％-6.5％),sub-group analysis showed that the prevalence of HIV infection in the eastern,central and western China were 4.2％ (95％CI:2.6％-6.6％),1.9％ (95％C1:0.8％-4.6％),6.3％ (95％ CI:4.7％-8.5％),respectively,and there were significant differences among different areas.Conclusion The prevalence of AIDS-related risk sexual behaviors and incidence of HIV infection in YMSM were high in China,it is necessary to conduct AIDS intervention in this population.

Acciones educativas sobre aspectos de la sexualidad dirigidas a adolescentes / Educative actions aimed at adolescents regarding sexuality aspects

Introducción: en Cuba es cada vez mayor el número de jóvenes que inician precozmente las relaciones sexuales, de ahí que el número de embarazos aumente en la adolescencia. Objetivo: identificar las necesidades de aprendizaje en algunos aspectos de la sexualidad en un grupo de adolescentes. Métodos: estudio descriptivo realizado en el consultorio médico 10-25, del Grupo Básico de Trabajo No. 2 en Quemado de Güines en septiembre 2009-2010. El universo lo constituían 135 adolescentes y finalmente quedaron 65 de ambos sexos. Se diseñaron e implementaron un grupo de acciones educativas sobre aspectos de la sexualidad en la adolescencia. Se tuvieron en cuenta los principios éticos correspondientes. Resultados: en la muestra había 35 muchachas y 30 muchachos. Un amplio porcentaje consideró que la adolescencia es un período apropiado para mantener relaciones sexuales. Los conocimientos relacionados con los métodos para la anticoncepción tuvieron igual porcentaje para los buenos y los regulares conocimientos, pero la mayoría expuso razones convincentes que expresaron que no se sienten preparados para afrontar situaciones de aborto y embarazo. Conclusiones: las necesidades de aprendizaje de los adolescentes se centraron en aspectos generales de la sexualidad, el inicio precoz de las relaciones sexuales y sus riesgos. Las acciones educativas lograron elevar el nivel de conocimientos en la mayoría del grupo y se obtuvo un alto grado de satisfacción con las acciones ejecutadas(AU)

Introducción: in Cuba, the number of adolescents who early start their sexual relationships is increasingly growing, and as a result, the number of pregnant women at adolescence also rises. Objetive: to identify the learning requirements of a group of adolescents about some sexuality aspects. Methods: descriptive study conducted at the physician's office 10-25 of the basic work team number 2 in Quemado de Guines municipality in the period of September 2009 through September 2010. The universe of study was 135 adolescents and finally 65 of both sexes. A group of educative actions about some sexuality aspects in adolescence were designed and implemented. The respective ethical principles were considered. Results: the sample covered 35 females and 30 males. A high percentage of participants considered adolescence as the right phase to have sexual relations. Their knowledge about the contraceptive methods showed similar percentages for good and regular level of knowledge, but the majority expressed convincing reasons that clearly showed that they were not fully prepared to face abortion and pregnancy situations. Conclusions: the learning requirements of adolescents were centered in general sexuality aspects, early onset of sexual relations and sexual risks. The educative actions managed to raise the level of knowledge in most of the group and the implemented actions were highly satisfactory(AU)

HPV infection, risk factors and viral load among Mexican male college students

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of HPV and the risky sexual behaviors associated to it in a sample of male college students, taking into account genotype and viral load. Methods: From 2002 to 2003, male students from the Autonomous University of Morelos State completed a questionnaire and provided self-collected genital samples to detect and quantify HPV. We performed a bivariate and a multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify correlates associated with the infection and to assess the viral load as a function of the viral infecting type. The fragments of β-globin gene and L1 of HPV, were amplified, purified and cloned, to evaluate viral load. Results: Among 253 subjects, HPV prevalence was 19.4%, and HPV16 was the most common subtype. History of STIs (OR = 4.8; 95% CI 1.2–18.9), contraceptive pill use by female partner (OR = 2.6; 95% CI 1.1–6.3) and exchanging sex for money (OR = 4.9; 95% CI 1.2–20) were associated to the HPV infection. HPV16 viral load was 7.8 copies (HPV/beta-globin) compared to 0.9 copies for other HPV types. Discussion: HPV16 displayed the highest viral load, and it was the most prevalent. It was found that using contraceptive pills by female partners was associated with HPV infection. .

Change of risky sexual behaviors among men who have sex with men before and after recent identification of HIV diagnosis / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective To assess the change of sexual behaviors before and after HIV was recently identified among men who have sex with men(MSM). Methods A retrospective study was conducted on recently identified HIV-infected MSM in Chengdu and Tianjin. A face-to-face questionnaire interview was administrated to collect sexual behaviors within six months,before and after HIV was diagnosed. Differences in sexual behavior before and after the diagnosis were assessed, using the McNemar χ 2 test. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors for sexually risk behaviors. Results Of 129 HIV-infected MSM under survey,the average age was 31.8 years and the main venue in seeking male sex partners was through Internet. The proportions of MSM with unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) decreased from 70.5% before diagnosis to 16.3% after diagnosis and the percentage of having more than 1 partner decreased from 66.7%before diagnosis to 33.3%after diagnosis. After the diagnosis was made,there appeared a significant decrease in the percentage of persons who had one main partner from 72.9% to 55.0% and having casual partners declined from 62.8% to 31.0%. Data from multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that risk factors as UAI before diagnosis,more than 1 partner after diagnosis and having one main partner,were all significantly associated with UAI after diagnosis. After the diagnosis was made for UAI,risk factors for‘having more than 1 partner’after diagnosis,would include:using Internet to seek for sexual partners,after diagnosis,having one main partner but not disclosing to him. Conclusion After the diagnosis was made,most HIV-infected MSM would reduce their high risk sexual behaviors but some continued to practice UAI.

Change of risky sexual behaviors among men who have sex with men before and after recent identification of HIV diagnosis / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective To assess the change of sexual behaviors before and after HIV was recently identified among men who have sex with men(MSM). Methods A retrospective study was conducted on recently identified HIV-infected MSM in Chengdu and Tianjin. A face-to-face questionnaire interview was administrated to collect sexual behaviors within six months,before and after HIV was diagnosed. Differences in sexual behavior before and after the diagnosis were assessed, using the McNemar χ 2 test. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors for sexually risk behaviors. Results Of 129 HIV-infected MSM under survey,the average age was 31.8 years and the main venue in seeking male sex partners was through Internet. The proportions of MSM with unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) decreased from 70.5% before diagnosis to 16.3% after diagnosis and the percentage of having more than 1 partner decreased from 66.7%before diagnosis to 33.3%after diagnosis. After the diagnosis was made,there appeared a significant decrease in the percentage of persons who had one main partner from 72.9% to 55.0% and having casual partners declined from 62.8% to 31.0%. Data from multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that risk factors as UAI before diagnosis,more than 1 partner after diagnosis and having one main partner,were all significantly associated with UAI after diagnosis. After the diagnosis was made for UAI,risk factors for‘having more than 1 partner’after diagnosis,would include:using Internet to seek for sexual partners,after diagnosis,having one main partner but not disclosing to him. Conclusion After the diagnosis was made,most HIV-infected MSM would reduce their high risk sexual behaviors but some continued to practice UAI.