Positive and gay: safer sex by principle
doctoral thesis
The present thesis describes the development, implementation, and evaluation of a theory- and evidence-based HIV-preventive intervention for HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM). Although many of those who learn that they are HIV-positive subsequently modify their sexual behavior, behavioral studies have consistently shown that a significant number of HIV-positive MSM engage in unprotected anal intercourse (UAI). The potential health consequences of UAI for MSM are serious, regardless of HIV-status. HIV-negative men run the risk not only of initial HIV infection, but also of HIV infection with a drug-resistant virus, which might have major consequences for subsequent treatment. HIV-positive MSM run the risk of HIV superinfection and other sexually transmitted diseases
(STDs), possibly resulting in accelerated progress to full-blown AIDS and death. As the introduction of combination therapy in 1996, also known as highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), has led to beneficial results, such as a prolonged life expectancy and increased quality of life among HIV-infected individuals, new HIV infections are increasingly being associated with MSM who are known HIV-positive and participate in UAI. To prevent further spread of HIV and STDs reducing sexual risk behavior among HIV-positive MSM is an important public health challenge.
(STDs), possibly resulting in accelerated progress to full-blown AIDS and death. As the introduction of combination therapy in 1996, also known as highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), has led to beneficial results, such as a prolonged life expectancy and increased quality of life among HIV-infected individuals, new HIV infections are increasingly being associated with MSM who are known HIV-positive and participate in UAI. To prevent further spread of HIV and STDs reducing sexual risk behavior among HIV-positive MSM is an important public health challenge.
Topics
TNO Identifier
275117
ISBN
978-90-8891-010-4
Publisher
Universiteit Maastricht
Place of publication
Maastricht