Sex without Condom and HIV Testing among Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Comparative Study of Two Metropolitan Statistical Areas in Texas

Abstract

Background: Condomless anal sex (CAS) accounts for most HIV infections among men who have sex with men (MSM). Knowledge of one’s HIV status through routine testing remains essential for reducing HIV transmission. We assessed the associations between demographic, behavioral, and prevention characteristics of MSM who engaged in CAS and HIV testing in the Dallas and Houston, Texas metropolitan areas in 2008 and 2014, and examined changes in CAS and HIV testing prevalence during this period. Methods: Data from the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance for 2008 and 2014 MSM cycles in Dallas and Houston were used for this analysis. We compared proportions of self-reported CAS and HIV testing and determined the adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) using generalized estimating equations. Results: The overall adjusted prevalence of CAS among MSM in Dallas and Houston remained stable over time. MSM who had one sexual partner were 9 (aPR=9.21, 95%CI=3.83-14.91, p