Top 5 Takeaways

1. Disparities in HIV Infections: While new HIV infections decreased among White MSM from 2010 to 2019, they did not decrease among Black MSM or Hispanic/Latino MSM.
2. Age-Related Trends: New HIV infections increased among MSM aged 25–34 years, while they decreased among those aged 13–24 years and 45–54 years.
3. Lower Utilization of HIV Services: Black MSM and Hispanic/Latino MSM had lower rates of HIV diagnosis, PrEP use, ART adherence, and viral suppression compared to White MSM.
4. HIV-Related Stigma: Higher levels of HIV-related stigma were reported among Black MSM and Hispanic/Latino MSM compared to White MSM, potentially impacting access to services.
5. Need for Improved Access: Enhancing access to HIV prevention and treatment services, particularly for Black MSM, Hispanic/Latino MSM, and younger MSM, is crucial for ending the HIV epidemic in the U.S.

Original Article Author and Citation

Corresponding Author

Marc A. Pitasi, mpitasi@cdc.gov, 404-639-6361

Suggested Citation

Pitasi MA, Beer L, Cha S, et al. Vital Signs: HIV Infection, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention Among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men — United States, 2010–2019. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2021;70:1669–1675. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7048e1

Summary

This report analyzes national surveillance data from 2010 to 2019 to assess trends in new HIV infections and the use of prevention and treatment services among MSM. The findings highlight significant disparities in HIV outcomes among different racial/ethnic groups and age groups, with Black MSM and Hispanic/Latino MSM experiencing lower rates of diagnosis, PrEP use, ART adherence, and viral suppression compared to White MSM. The report underscores the need for improved access to HIV services to achieve the goals of the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative.

Methods

Data were analyzed from the National HIV Surveillance System (NHSS), National HIV Behavioral Surveillance (NHBS), and Medical Monitoring Project (MMP). The analysis included trends in new HIV infections, undiagnosed infections, HIV testing, PrEP use, ART adherence, viral suppression, and HIV-related stigma. Statistical significance was determined using the z-test, with p-values <0.05 indicating significant changes.

Discussion

The findings indicate persistent disparities in HIV outcomes among MSM, particularly among Black MSM and Hispanic/Latino MSM. Despite focused prevention efforts, these groups continue to experience lower utilization of HIV services and higher levels of HIV-related stigma. The report suggests that innovative and culturally appropriate strategies are needed to improve access to HIV testing, prevention, and treatment services, and to address systemic issues such as racism, stigma, and discrimination.

Conclusion

To end the HIV epidemic in the U.S., it is essential to improve access to and use of HIV services for MSM, especially Black MSM, Hispanic/Latino MSM, and younger MSM. Addressing social determinants of health and reducing HIV-related stigma are critical steps toward achieving the goals of the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative.

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