SEXUAL NETWORKS AND THE TRANSMISSION OF HIV IN LONDON

This paper discusses ways in which empirical research investigating se xual networks can further understanding of the transmission of HIV in London, using information from a 24-month period of participant observ ation and 53 open-ended, in-depth interviews with eighteen men and one woman who have direct and indirect sexual links with each other. Thes e interviews enabled the identification of a wider sexual network betw een 154 participants and contacts during the year August 1994-July 199 5. The linked network data help to identify pathways of transmission b etween individuals who are HIV + and those who are HIV -, as well as s exual links between 'older' and 'younger' men, and with male prostitut es. There appears to be considerable on-going transmission of HIV in L ondon. The majority of participants reported having had unprotected an al and/or vaginal sex within a variety of relationships. The implicati ons of these findings for policies designed to prevent the transmissio n of HIV are discussed.