Programs succeed in reducing risky sex among HIV-positive minority men – UCLA From: newsroom.ucla.edu

Research has shown that HIV-positive African American and Hispanic men who were sexually abused as children are particularly vulnerable to engaging in high-risk sex and experiencing depressive symptoms. Yet few HIV intervention programs exist to help them.

Now, a new study by UCLA’s Center for Culture, Trauma and Mental Health Disparities has found that interventions that address the life experiences of these men — including their early sexual experiences — in addition to risk and general health issues can contribute significantly toward preventing high-risk behavior and reducing depression rates. The success is largely due to the social support found within these programs, researchers say.

And while brief interventions may be effective in the short term, periodic “boosters,” or additional sessions, may be needed to reinforce positive changes over time, according to the study authors.”*

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