A pilot RCT of an intervention to reduce HIV sexual risk and increase self-acceptance among MSM in Chennai, India
Safren, S.A.; Thomas, B.E.; Mayer, K.H.; Biello, K.B.; Mani, J.; Rajagandhi, V.; Periyasamy, M.; Swaminathan, S.; Mimiaga, M.J.
Aids and Behavior 18(10): 1904-1912
2014
ISSN/ISBN: 1573-3254 PMID: 24770985 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-014-0773-4Document Number: 636283
This is a 2-arm pilot randomized controlled trial (N = 96) of a behavioral intervention (4 group and 4 individual sessions) integrating risk reduction counseling with counseling to foster self-acceptance in MSM in India compared to enhanced standard of care (ESOC). Both conditions involved HIV and STI testing and counseling at baseline and 6-months, and assessments of condomless sex at baseline, 3-, and 6-months. A significant condition by time interaction suggested a difference in the rate of change in number of anal sex acts without condoms in the intervention versus ESOC (p < 0.0001). Post hoc contrasts suggested that the overall difference was due to intervention-response at 3-months. The incidence of bacterial STIs was 17.5 % in the intervention condition and a 28.6 % in ESOC. Addressing self-acceptance and related psychosocial concerns in the context sexual risk reduction counseling for MSM in India was feasible and acceptable. Testing the intervention for efficacy is justified.
Document emailed within 0-6 h
