The Relationship Between Online Social Network Use, Sexual Risk Behaviors, and HIV Sero-Status Among a Sample of Predominately African American and Latino Men Who have Sex with Men (MSM) Social Media Users

Abstract

Abstract Social networking technologies have emergedas potential platforms to reach HIV(?) MSM in HIVinterventions. This study sought to compare use of onlinesocial networking sites (SNSs) and sexual risk behaviorsbetween HIV(?) and HIV(-) individuals among a sampleof predominately African American and Latino SNS-usingMSM. A total of 112 MSM Facebook users were recruitedonline and offline and completed an online survey. Weperformed regression models to assess the associationbetween HIV status, SNS use, and sexual risk behaviors.After adjusting for age, race, and employment status, beingHIV positive was significantly associated with a greaternumber of sexual partners (ARR = 2.84, p = 0.0017) andlower comfort levels of discussing HIV/STI status on SNSs(AOR: 0.23, p = 0.011). Findings suggest that HIV statusis associated with sexual risk behaviors and SNS useamong SNS-using MSM. We discuss the implications foronline HIV prevention