Internalized oppression and high-risk sexual practices among homosexual and bisexual males, Mexico
Ortiz Hernández, L.; García Torres, Mía.Isabel.
Revista de Saude Publica 39(6): 956-964
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 0034-8910 PMID: 16341407 Document Number: 266689
Objective: To assess the relationship between high-risk sexual practices related to HIV infection and internalized oppression due to prejudice and discrimination among homosexual and bisexual men in Mexico. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted between September and November 2001. A questionnaire was administered to 318 males who sought services and institutions in Mexico City. The studied variables were: internalized homophobia, perception of stigma, concealing sexual orientation, and sexual practices in the 6 months prior to the survey. The relationship (odds ratios) between forms of internalized oppression with high-risk sexual practices was estimated using logistic regression models adjusted for confounders. Results: Of the respondents, 256 reported having at least one sexual relationship in the last 6 months, 50 reported having none, and 12 did not answer the question. More than 30% had not used condoms when they engaged in insertive or receptive anal sex. Internalized homophobia was associated with higher risk of drug consumption before or during sexual encounters, unprotected insertive/receptive anal sex, and swallowing semen from other men. Conclusions: Engaging in high-risk sexual practices is still frequent among homosexual and bisexual men. Of the 3 forms of internalized oppression, homophobia is associated with higher high-risk sexual practices. This information may be incorporated into the design of programmes for promoting condom use among homosexual and bisexual men.