Estimating levels of HIV testing, HIV prevention coverage, HIV knowledge, and condom use among men who have sex with men (MSM) in low-income and middle-income countries.
BACKGROUND
HIV prevalence data suggest that men who have sex with men (MSM) in low-income and middle-income countries (LMIC) are at increased risk of HIV. The aim of this article is to present global estimates on key HIV prevention needs and responses among MSM in LMIC.


METHODS
Data on HIV testing, HIV prevention coverage, HIV knowledge and condom use among MSM were derived from UNGASS country progress reports submitted in 2008. Eligible country estimates were used to calculate global and regional estimates, weighted for the size of MSM populations.


RESULTS
Of 147 LMIC, 45% reported at least 1 indicator that reflects the HIV prevention needs and responses in MSM. Global weighted estimates indicate that on average 31% of MSM in LMIC were tested for HIV; 33% were reached by HIV prevention programs; 44% had correct HIV knowledge; and 54% used condoms the last time they had anal sex with a man.


CONCLUSIONS
The 2008 UNGASS country reports represent the largest harmonized data set to date of HIV prevention needs and responses among MSM in LMIC. Although reporting is incomplete and does not always conform to requirements, findings confirm that, in many LMIC, HIV prevention responses in MSM need substantial strengthening.
Adam
Philippe C G
PC
National Centre in HIV Social Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia. philippe.adam@unsw.edu.au
de Wit
John B F
JB
Toskin
Igor
I
Mathers
Bradley M
BM
Nashkhoev
Magomed
M
Zablotska
Iryna
I
Lyerla
Rob
R
Rugg
Deborah
D
D017280:Condoms; D014943:Global Health; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D018451:Homosexuality, Male / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011203:Poverty; D014480:United Nations; D047568:Unsafe Sex / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*