High HIV incidence and prevalence and associated factors among adolescent sexual minority males, 3 cities, 2015

Abstract

Background

Much has been written about the impact of HIV among young (13-24) sexual minority men (SMM). Evidence for concern is substantial for emerging adult (18-24) SMM. Data documenting the burden and associated risk factors of HIV among adolescent SMM (<18) remains limited.

Methods

Adolescent SMM aged 13–18 years were recruited in three cities (Chicago; New York City; Philadelphia) for interview and HIV testing. We used chi-square tests for percentages of binary variables and one-way ANOVA for means of continuous variables to assess differences by race-ethnicity in behaviors. We calculated estimated annual HIV incidence density (number of HIV infections/100 person-years [PY] at risk). We computed Fisher's exact tests to determine differences in HIV prevalence by selected characteristics.

Results

Of 415 sexually active adolescent SMM with a valid HIV test result, 25 (6%) had a positive test. Estimated annual HIV incidence density (ID) was 3.4/100PY; ID was highest for blacks, followed by Hispanics, then whites (4.1, 3.2 and 1.1/100PY). Factors associated with higher HIV prevalence included black race; ≥4 male partners, condomless anal sex, and exchange sex in the past 12 months; a recent partner that was older, black, HIV-positive, or had ever been in jail or prison (p<0.05).

Conclusions

HIV-related risk behaviors, prevalence and estimated incidence density for adolescent SMM were high, especially for minority SMM. Our findings suggest that initiating intervention efforts early may be helpful in combating these trends.