Knowledge, attitudes, sexual behaviors and utilization of health services among Filipino men who have sex with men (MSM).
- Author:
Amit Jansil Marie L.
;
Jimenez Sarah Jane A.
;
Magno Carla Jane Concepcion O.
;
Andaya Angelico Rome Y.
;
Saniel Ofelia P.
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- MeSH: Human; Male; Middle Aged; Adult; Young Adult; Adolescent; HIV; Sexually Transmitted Diseases; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
- From: Acta Medica Philippina 2015;49(3):49-58
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
OBJECTIVES: The main objective of this study was to describe the knowledge, attitudes, sexual practices, and utilization of health services of the MSM population in the Philippines.
METHODS: The study design was cross-sectional. Data was collected through an online survey of Filipino MSMs with accounts at any of the three (3) major MSM websites. This was supplemented by focus group discussions and key-informant interviews of informal MSM leaders. Only 682 men satisfied the eligibility criteria and were included in the analysis.
RESULTS: Forty eight percent (48%) of the respondents had low levels of knowledge on Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Majority (54%) engaged in unprotected sex despite having positive attitudes toward condom use. MSMs had multiple sex partnerships to satisfy their "high libido" and get "sexual gratification." Only 17% had submitted themselves for HIV testing and knew their results.
CONCLUSIONS: MSMs remain at high risk for HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's). There is a wide gap between knowledge and actual sexual practices, and their health-seeking behavior remains poor. Thus, there is a need for programs that are tailored to the needs, cultural diversities, and unique practices of the MSM community.