Recent Sexual Risk and Health Care Access among Latino Men in the US: Acculturation and Health Disparities

Background:
Latinos in the US are disproportionately affected by STIs. Little research has examined the sexual risks of Latinos on a national level.

Objective:
To compare Latino and white men in recent sexual risk and health care access using interview language as a measure of acculturation.

Method:
Data from the National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG) Cycle 6 (2002) were analyzed using SUDAAN. Interview language and ethnicity were used to form three comparison groups of men (ages 15-44 years): Spanish-speaking Latino, English-speaking Latino, and white (English-speaking).

Result:
Of the 3601 men, 10% were Spanish-speaking Latino, 21% were English-speaking Latino, and 69% were English-speaking White. 18% of White, 22% of Spanish-speaking Latino, and 29% of English-speaking Latino men had multiple female sex partners in the past year (p < .0001). In separate logistic regression models that included age, education level, marital/cohabitation status, and poverty level, English- and Spanish-speaking Latino men (AOR=1.6 and 2.1) were more likely to report multiple partners in the past year, Spanish-speaking Latinos (AOR = 0.4) were less likely to report having sex while “high”, and English-speaking Latinos (AOR = 2.0) were more likely to report giving money or drugs for sex than white men. In adjusted models, Latinos (AOR =0.5 and 0.8) were less likely to have a usual place to go when sick, and Spanish-speaking Latinos (AOR=3.2) were more likely to lack health insurance in the past year. Condom use will also be discussed.

Conclusion:
In general, Latino men are at more risk for STIs and have less access to health care than white men.

Implications:
STI prevention interventions that focus on the unique needs of Latinos and Latino immigrants are needed.