The global epidemic of HIV infection among men who have sex with men

Abstract

Purpose of review: In the last few years, there have been reports of new, newly identified and resurging epidemics of HIV infection among men who have sex with men (MSM). This article reviews and summarizes the global epidemic of HIV infection among MSM.

Recent findings: In the Western world, the increase in notifications of new HIV infections among MSM is continuing. Steep increases in reports of new HIV diagnoses among MSM were also seen in the developed economies of East Asia. In the developing world, epidemiologic studies have now established the presence of MSM populations in Africa, China and Russia and a high HIV prevalence among them. High and increasing HIV prevalence was also reported from South and Southeast Asia, and Latin America and the Caribbean.

Summary: HIV continues to spread among MSM on a global level. Current prevention efforts have been unable to contain or reduce HIV transmission in this population. Additional behavioral and biomedical interventions are urgently needed.