Comprehensive clinical care for men who have sex with men: An integrated approach

Abstract

Men who have sex with men have unique health care needs, partially due to biologial factors, such as their increased susceptibility to HIV and STD acquisition and transmission because of anal intercourse, but also due to the internalization of societal stigma related to homosexuality and gender non-conformity, resulting in depression, anxiety and substance use, and other adverse health outcomes. Successful responses to the global HIV/AIDS epidemic will require the development of culturally-sensitive clinical care programs for MSM that address these health disparities concerns, as well as root causes of maladaptive behavior, such as societal homophobia. Providers need to become familiar with local outreach agencies, hotlines and media that can connect MSM with positive role models and social opportunities. Research is needed to understand how the majority of MSM lead resilient and productive lives in the face of discrimination, in order to develop assets-based interventions that build on community supports that MSM have created. MSM deserve to be treated with respect and clinical providers need to interact with them in ways that promote the disclosure of actionable health information. Optimal clinical care for sexual and gender minority persons is a fundamental human right, requiring health professionals as allies.