[HIV infection and unsafe sexual behavior among young homosexual men in Amsterdam, 1992].

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of sexual behaviour with the risk of HIV transmission among young homosexual men in Amsterdam.

DESIGN

Point prevalence study.

SETTING

Amsterdam.

METHODS

Participants were recruited through advertisements and in gay bars and a STD clinic in the period October 1991-1992. A questionnaire regarding sexual behaviour was completed, and blood samples were drawn to test for presence of serological markers of HIV infection, hepatitis B and syphilis.

RESULTS

Enrolled in the study were 154 men (mean age: 25 years). The prevalence of antibodies against HIV was 5% and that of hepatitis B 22%. Receptive anogenital intercourse with steady partners in the previous six months was reported by 60% (74% sometimes without a condom), with non-steady partners by 41% (40% without a condom). The figures for insertive anogenital intercourse were: steady partners: 45% (74%); non-steady partners: 49% (41%). Overall 43% (66/153) reported at least one unprotected anogenital contact in the previous six months. The presence of HIV antibodies was correlated with the number of partners with whom anogenital sexual intercourse was practised.

CONCLUSION

The HIV prevalence (5%) was relatively low. Considering the high prevalence of unsafe sexual behaviour further spread of HIV infection among young homosexual men is to be expected.