Knowledge, attitudes, sexual behaviors and utilization of health services among Filipino men who have sex with men (MSM)

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: The main objective of this study was to describe the knowledge, attitudes, sexual practices, and utilization of health services of the MSM population in the Philippines. METHODS: The study design was cross-sectional. Data was collected through an online survey of Filipino MSMs with accounts at any of the three (3) major MSM websites. This was supplemented by focus group discussions and key-informant interviews of informal MSM leaders. Only 682 men satisfied the eligibility criteria and were included in the analysis. RESULTS: Forty eight percent (48%) of the respondents had low levels of knowledge on Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Majority (54%) engaged in unprotected sex despite having positive attitudes toward condom use. MSMs had multiple sex partnerships to satisfy their "high libido" and get "sexual gratification." Only 17% had submitted themselves for HIV testing and knew their results. CONCLUSIONS: MSMs remain at high risk for HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's). There is a wide gap between knowledge and actual sexual practices, and their health-seeking behavior remains poor. Thus, there is a need for programs that are tailored to the needs, cultural diversities, and unique practices of the MSM community.