Correlates of risky behaviors among young and older men having sexual relations with men in Montréal, Québec, Canada. Omega Study Group.

OBJECTIVE

To assess characteristics associated with 1) age and 2) recent unprotected anal sex with casual partners among men having sexual relations with men (MSM) participating in the Omega Cohort, Montréal, Québec, Canada.

METHODS

The Omega Cohort is a study of the incidence and psychosocial determinants of HIV infection among MSM living in Montréal. MSM complete a questionnaire and are tested for HIV every 6 months.

RESULTS

Thirteen percent of young MSM (< 30 years of age, n = 355) and 12% of older MSM (> or = 30 years of age, n = 455) reported recent unprotected anal sex with casual partners. The predictors of this latter behavior were: not living with a male sexual partner, unprotected anal sex with regular partner, > 5 casual partners, alcohol/drug use before anal sex, and having difficulties with procedures needed for safe sex. Among young MSM, additional predictors were: to have been living in Montreal for less than 1 year and to have exchanged money for sex. Among older MSM, additional predictors were: female sexual partners, unprotected anal sex with an HIV-infected partner, and feeling invulnerable to AIDS.

CONCLUSION

Young Omega participants do not have more risky behaviors than older participants. Some predictors of recent risk behaviors with casual partners were different between the two groups. Prevention programs should be adapted consequently.