Gay exposed

Certain biological factors increase the risk. Social, cultural, and economic factors—such as stigma, racism, homophobia, and high rates of poverty—further compound the risk. Regardless of the causes, access to exposed, prevention, and PrEP to lower HIV transmission in this high-risk group remains a pressing issue. There are numerous free or low-cost confidential testing and treatment sites offered by the U.

Department of Health and Human Services via their online testing locator. Verywell Health acknowledges that sex and gender are related conceptsbut they are not the same. While calculation methods and research definitions vary, those exposed in a review suggest that among the general population, the definition of men who have sex with men MSM ranges from 3.

A broader definition that accounts for sexual identity and attraction as well as behavior suggests they make up 9. MSM focuses on behavior rather than self-identification. The term was created during the s as a means to track the route of Gay transmission and the spread of infection through male-to-male sexual activity.

Before this change, many infections were left unaccounted for. Despite their smaller numbers, MSM account for about two-thirds of all infections. Transgender people account for 0. Transwomen are especially vulnerable with one of every five having HIV. Risk factors include healthcare access, lack of family support, higher rates of violence, alcohol or drug use, and survival sex gay.

Simply put, a person is more likely to get HIV from anal sex than vaginal sex. The risk may be as much as 18 times greater than that of vaginal sex. There are several explanations for this:. Because of these and other factors, HIV infection can occur quickly. This includes having multiple sex partners or using online hookup sites.

While these factors are not exclusive to MSM, they can amplify the risk in certain groups. Studies have shown that MSM, as a group, are at greater risk because:. In some communities of color, MSM tend to face more stigma. The sexual networks tend to be smaller and this can increase the likelihood of exposure to the virus.

From the Experts

Condomless anal sex further compounds the risk of getting HIV. This is because rectal fluids contain a high concentration of HIV—in some cases as much as five to 25 times higher than in blood or semen. Contributing socioeconomic factors include:. Inthe poverty rate among Black and Latinx people in the United States was Rather than subject themselves to shame or discrimination, some men may avoid HIV testing and treatment until the disease is advanced and harder to manage.