An assessment of the sexual health of Asian gay and bisexual men in B.C.

In Canada, Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) form the group with the highest prevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. Studies conducted in other developed countries indicated that MSM of visible minority groups have a higher prevalence of HIV infection and lower HIV testing rate. The objectives of this study are to describe the prevalence of HIV, and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) among Asian MSM in Vancouver.We conducted secondary data analysis of the ManCount survey, conducted in Vancouver. Participants were categorized into Asian and non-Asian MSM according to self-reported ethnicity status. We found that HIV/STI prevalence was significantly lower in the non-Asian MSM population. Moreover, HIV/STI testing rate was lower, especially among younger Asian MSM. Lower HIV/STI prevalence among Asian MSM population means we have a very good opportunity to reduce further spread of HIV/STI among this vulnerable population in BC.