RISK-FACTORS FOR HUMAN-IMMUNODEFICIENCY-VIRUS INFECTION AND UNPROTECTED ANAL INTERCOURSE AMONG YOUNG MEN WHO HAVE SEX WITH MEN

Background and Objectives: Few studies concerning human immunodeficien cy virus (HIV) and its risk behaviors have been conducted among young men who have sex with men (YMSM). These are important because YMSM wil l have profound influence on the HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrom e epidemic. Goals: To estimate the prevalence of and risk factors asso ciated with HIV infection and recent unprotected anal intercourse (UAI ) among YMSM in California. Methods: Between March and October, 1991, 836 men, 17 to 25 years of age, were surveyed at four California sites , The survey consisted of an interview from a standardized questionnai re and a blood draw for HIV antibody testing. Results: Almost 9.0% tes ted positive for HIV antibodies, whereas about 36.0% reported recent U AI, Several factors were associated both univariately and multivariate ly with HIV infection, as well as for recent UAI. Conclusions: Young m en who have sex with men in California continue to engage in behaviors risky for HIV infection, Efforts helping YMSM reduce them should targ et subgroups having a high HIV seroprevalence or recent UAI prevalence .