HIV Infection Among Young Black Men Who Have Sex With Men --- Jackson, Mississippi, 2006--2008

This report summarizes results of a survey of 29 black 17-25 year-old men who have sex with men (MSM) who were diagnosed with HIV infection during January 2006-April 2008 in the three-county Jackson Mississippi area. The survey was conducted by the Mississippi State Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The study examined risk behavior and HIV testing behavior of the participants. Results show that during the 12 months prior to receiving the diagnosis of HIV infection, 20 of the 29 subjects had unprotected anal intercourse, but only three (10 percent) thought they would acquire HIV infection in their lifetimes. It is suggested that targeted interventions that decrease HIV risk behaviors among black MSM should be developed, implemented, and evaluated to reduce HIV transmission.