Willingness of Men Who Have Sex with Men to Be Circumcised to Reduce HIV Risk
Author Information
Author(s): Elin B. Begley, Krishna Jafa, Andrew C. Voetsch, James D. Heffelfinger, Craig B. Borkowf, Patrick S. Sullivan
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hypothesis
Would men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States be willing to be circumcised as adults if it were proven to reduce the risk of HIV infection?
Conclusion
Over half of uncircumcised MSM, especially black MSM, expressed willingness to be circumcised.
Supporting Evidence
- 53% of uncircumcised MSM were willing to be circumcised.
- Black MSM were more likely to express willingness to be circumcised compared to white MSM.
- Concerns about pain and infection were common among respondents.
Takeaway
Many men who have sex with men are open to getting circumcised if it helps prevent HIV, especially black men.
Methodology
Interviews were conducted with presumed-HIV negative MSM at gay pride events, assessing their willingness to be circumcised and perceived barriers.
Potential Biases
Respondents receiving incentives were more likely to agree to participate, potentially introducing selection bias.
Limitations
The sample was a convenience sample and may not represent all MSM; self-reported circumcision status may be inaccurate.
Participant Demographics
Participants were men who have sex with men, primarily attending gay pride events, with a focus on racial and ethnic minorities.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.3–9.8
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website