STI and HIV prevention in men who have sex with men in Europe
This report gives an overview of the current status of STI and HIV among men who have sex with men (MSM) in EU/EEA countries. It reviews HIV and STI prevention interventions targeted at MSM, and the evaluations of those interventions. Education-based interventions were the most frequent prevention intervention activity followed by counselling and testing.
The report found that although the focus of HIV and STI prevention intervention for MSM may be disease specific, the integration of prevention intervention into a comprehensive approach for disease prevention in the context of sexual health for MSM should be considered.
Executive Summary
Across Europe men who have sex with men (MSM) represent one of the key groups affected by HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STI). At present, MSM account for almost half of all syphilis cases reported in Europe – with some countries reporting almost 80% of all cases in this group. On-going outbreaks and rising trends among MSM suggest the need for reinforced prevention initiatives.
The report STI and HIV prevention in men who have sex with men in Europe identifies many of the needs and challenges with respect to STI and HIV prevention among MSM. Despite the increasing STI and HIV trends, many innovative approaches to prevention among MSM exist.
Sharing these practices between the EU Member States is essential to effectively tackle STI and HIV in the wider context of the sexual health of men who have sex with men in Europe. Divided in three parts, the document offers an updated inventory of STI and HIV trends among MSM in Europe from 1995-2010, a literature review of behavioural and psychosocial STI and HIV prevention interventions among MSM and a review of intervention evaluations
The report recognises that combined prevention interventions are a key to control STI and HIV. Moreover, to improve the quality and effectiveness of prevention interventions, the design of any intervention should be based on epidemiological appraisal and behavioural profile of the specific MSM population. Consistent surveillance systems that support interpretation of trends and dissemination of prevention intervention need to be implemented at national and local level.
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