[HIV infection and risky sexual behavior in a new cohort of young homosexual men in Amsterdam, 1995-1996].

OBJECTIVE

The surveillance of HIV prevalence and incidence and of sexual risk behaviour among young homosexual men.

DESIGN

Cohort study, cross-sectional data presentation.

SETTING

Municipal Health Service of the City of Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

METHODS

At entry into the study participants were questioned about their sexual behaviour and blood or saliva samples were collected for laboratory determination of antibodies against HIV, hepatitis B and syphilis.

RESULTS

In June 1995-October 1996, 429 men with a mean age of 25 years were enrolled in the cohort study. Of these 22 (5%) were positive for antibodies against HIV. Based on the duration of homosexual activity of the participants the HIV incidence in this group was estimated at 1% per year. Furthermore, 10% of the participants had experienced hepatitis B infection and 1% had serological evidence of syphilis. Of those under investigation 38% had practised unprotected anogenital intercourse with steady or non-steady partners in the last six months.

CONCLUSIONS

The data suggest that HIV is spreading among young homosexual men. Given the high levels of risk behaviour continued prevention activities in this group are necessary.