Case studies
Improving gay men's sexual health: influencing policies and public health campaigns
In the UK, men who have sex with men (MSM) are at highest risk of HIV. Dr Lisa McDaid of the MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, in the School of Health and Wellbeing, has conducted the Gay Men’s Sexual Health Survey every three years since 1996. They collect information on the sexual behaviours, prevention and testing of 1,500 gay and bisexual MSM in gay commercial venues in Glasgow and Edinburgh. The surveys found increases in risk behaviours between 1996 and 2002 and significant increases in HIV testing between 2005 and 2008. The most recent anonymous testing demonstrated 5% prevalence of HIV, of which 25% was undiagnosed. Most MSM with undiagnosed HIV had previously tested negative, suggesting a need for frequent repeat testing.
Findings from the surveys have shaped health policies in Scotland, the UK and Europe and have been used by health practitioners to conduct successful NHS sexual health campaigns in Scotland. The campaigns have been credited with increased testing rates and increased awareness of HIV risks demonstrating the effectiveness of direct promotion of sexual health awareness within the gay community.