TUSY07 – The Lancet Special Series on Men who have Sex with Men

Main Themes

The HIV epidemic is expanding globally among MSM.

Biology is driving the spread among MSM.

Turning the Tide requires multi-pronged intervention.

Presenters

Stefan Baral

In 2012, HIV remains uncontrolled among MSM. Modeling results suggest substantial behavior change would not be enough to control the spread. 

Patrick Sullivan

Controlling the epidemic requires; behavior change, testing, adherence, condom uptake, linkages, retention, safe places for prevention, culturally competent care, reduced stigma and criminalization.   “Using prevention technologies we have today, a quarter of new infections could be prevented in the next decade.”

Kenneth Mayer – Caring for the Whole Person

Culturally competent care includes factoring issues such as; families, coming out, long term relationships, reproduction, parenting, mental health, chronic diseases and communicable diseases.  

Dennis Altman

Homophobia is social and political. It includes denial and ignorance.  Because of it large numbers of people are being denied information, treatment and support.  The challenge is to make new possibilities for prevention available to MSM

Gift Trapence 

MSM’s response has led to major contributions for all but it has come at a high price.  The time has come for all to contribute to the health of gay men and other MSM

Gregorio Millet

“Black MSM are 8.5 times more likely to be hiv+ versus black populations worldwide and 15 times more likely to be hiv+ versus general populations”. Ironically, black MSM are 40% more likely to use protection.  Criminalization of homosexuality in Africa and the Caribbean is associated with a 2 fold increase in prevalence. “Addressing structural barriers is essential to achieving health equity for black MSM.”

Chris Collins AmFar,
The way ahead should lead to “increased access to prevention and treatment services and human rights and a decrease in HIV incidence, morbidity, mortality, stigma and discrimination.”