Profile of Homosexuals, Bisexuals, and Transgender People in Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: It has been established that homosexuality plays a considerable role in the persistence of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infections, but data related to their extent remains paradoxically fragmentary. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and determinants of viral infection (Human Immunodeficiency Virus and hepatic viral infections) among homosexuals, bisexuals, and transgenders in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Methods: Between February 1 and March 30, 2022, an analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among Kinshasa's homosexual, bisexual, and transgender populations. The snowball method was used to choose participants from homosexuals’ organisations. Sociodemographic information and the prevalence of viral infections (HIV, HBV, and HCV) were included as study parameters. The determinants of viral infections were found using multivariate logistic regression. Results: A total of 555 participants (mean age: 28.5±7.8 years, unmarried: 44.9%) were enrolled. Human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C infection rates were, respectively, 31.5%, 6.3%, and 9.7% prevalent. HIV-HCV, HIV-HBV, and HIV-HBV-HCV coinfection rates were 4.7%, 4.1%, and 0.7%, respectively. HIV and HBV infection had the same risk factors namely piercing, incarceration, prostitution, and non-condom usage. HCV infection was more pronounced among individuals with piercing, STIs and a previous occurrence of jaundice. Conclusion: In Kinshasa, HIV, HBV, and HCV infections were widespread among homosexuals, bisexuals, and transgender people. Actions targeting LBGTs are essential to reduce HIV, HCV and HBV infections transmission in the community.