Background:
Since 1998, NYC has experienced a reemergence of primary and secondary syphilis cases affecting MSM. Over the past 7 years, an increasing proportion of syphilis cases have been among MSM of Color.

Objective:
In 2005, the NYCDOH awarded BLGHRC funding to perform syphilis testing through a comprehensive framework among MSM of Color in the Bronx and Manhattan.

Method:
BLGHRC created the “DL STATS Party!” a monthly party designed to aid individuals on the “Down Low” become aware of their health statistics. The events were held at large clubs that catered to Black and Latino MSM. Services provided included STD testing, vaccinations, blood pressure/glucose monitoring, smoking cessation patches, and mental health screening. Staff consisted of medical students and residents of local hospitals.


Result:
During 2005, 2,800 individuals attended the events and 750 individuals received at least 2 health services. The majority were Black or Hispanic MSM, with at least 2 sexual partners in the past 6 months. Nearly 40% were current smokers of cigarettes and 30% reported significant emotional distress in the past 2 years. Services rendered included: Chlamydia and Gonorrhea testing (50%), Hepatitis A (33%) or B vaccinations (30%), Syphilis testing (30%), blood pressure screening (30%), glucose screening (20%), HIV testing (20%), and smoking cessation patches (15%).

Conclusion:
Five new HIV, four Chlamydia, and three new Syphilis cases were detected. The DL STATS Party! did not identify many new STI cases, but was successful at engaging Hispanic and Black MSM at their preferred venues and provided numerous screening tests despite the distractions associated with a club/bar setting.

Implications:
The DL STATS Party serves as an innovative model for CBOs and health departments to engage MSM in STD and general health screening. The holistic framework allows for fluid discussion of STD screening and enforces the perception that STD screening is an important component of health maintenance.