Acceptability and feasibility of using established geosocial and sexual networking mobile applications to promote HIV and STD testing among men who have sex with men.
This study is the first published multi-app study, of which we are aware, to evaluate both the acceptability and feasibility of providing sexual health information and HIV/STD testing referrals via established geosocial and sexual networking apps for MSM. Data were collected using an online survey and through four apps (A4A Radar, Grindr, Jack'd, and Scruff). Two-thirds (64 %) found apps to be an acceptable source for sexual health information. MSM who found apps as acceptable were more likely non-white, not sure of their current HIV status, and have low HIV testing self-efficacy. One-quarter (26 %) of informational chats with the health educator resulted in users requesting and being referred to local HIV/STD testing sites. There were significant differences in the number and types of interactions across apps. Established apps designed for MSM may be both an acceptable and feasible platform to promote HIV/STD testing. Future research should evaluate interventions that leverage this technology.
Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Division of Public Health Sciences, Medical Center Boulevard, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA, csun@wakehealth.edu.
Christina J
CJ
Sun
Jason
J
Stowers
Cindy
C
Miller
Laura H
LH
Bachmann
Scott D
SD
Rhodes
D015492:AIDS Serodiagnosis / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D006293:Health Promotion; D018451:Homosexuality, Male / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D063731:Mobile Applications / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012309:Risk-Taking; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D060756:Social Networking; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology