This paper provides an understanding of men who have sex with men (MSM) in the context of Vietnam, epidemiology of HIV and STIs in MSM, and the social context associated with risk-taking behaviors for HIV transmission among MSM in Vietnam. The findings were gained from a critical review of published and unpublished papers and reports on behavioral and prevalence surveys and qualitative social studies about MSM in Vietnam in the 1990s and in early 2000s. The epidemiological data showed an increasing epidemic of HIV and extensive behavioral risks, such as frequent unprotected anal sex, common engagement in sex work and bisexuality, among MSM. The social research revealed that MSM in Vietnam manifested themselves in varied identities, such as bong kin, bong lo and ‘hidden’ men. MSM held multi-faceted risks for HIV because of being uninformed about risks and preventive measures and having poor access to commodities and services for HIV/AIDS and STIs. The paper suggests policy and programmatic recommendations to recognize the existence of MSM and urgent implementation of nationwide HIV prevention programs for reducing HIV transmission among MSM and their sexual partners in Vietnam. More research is needed to help make informed decisions, including size estimation, systematic data on HIV/STI prevalence and behavioral risks, social and cultural aspects of MSM, and best practices for HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment for MSM in Vietnam.

Authors: Vu Ngoc Bao - Phillippe Girault (Family Health International)

Please kindly send email to ask for the whole paper.

Encourages Project

Consultation of Investment in Health Promotion (CIHP)

108 - A12 Alley 4/15 Phuong Mai, Hanoi

Telephone: 04-5770261

E-mail: encourages@cihp.org