Utilizing the Internet to Support STD Prevention Among MSM in Rhode Island

Background: In the past ten years, MSM in Rhode Island have experienced an unprecedented increase (417%) in infectious syphilis, from 14 cases in 2005 to 80 cases in 2014.  Additionally, it is estimated that in 2014 MSM represented 35% of newly identified gonorrhea cases, yet they represent only 5% of the Rhode Island population.  A comprehensive STD prevention plan targeting MSM was developed with a focus on utilizing the Internet as a tool for MSM to obtain STD information, answer health questions, and facilitate access to care.

Methods:  Two surveys were conducted among 300 MSM in Rhode Island with the goal of gaining an understanding of MSM’s health seeking behaviors and the type of online health information they would find most beneficial.  Over 90% of respondents expressed a strong interest in finding a "gay friendly" doctor.  As an outcome, the www.Men2MenRI.orgwebsite was launched in May 2013, and the RIDOH “Sexual Health for Gay Men” webpage was launched in December 2014.  

Results:  Since its launch, the www.Men2MenRI.orgwebsite has had a total of 9,300 unique visitors and 29,000 page views. The most popular pages are “Find a Doctor,” “Community Calendar,” “Ask Dr. Phil Chan Your Health Question,” and “Take the HIV Risk Quiz.”  The RIDOH Sexual Health for Gay Men webpage has had a total of 7,800 page views and has served as a landing page for multiple online syphilis campaigns.  It is estimated that up to 25% of MSM in Rhode Island have accessed this webpage.      

Conclusions:  The success of Men2MenRI.org and the RIDOH webpage, in terms of total visitors and pageviews, indicates that MSM are actively utilizing the Internet to find information related to STD prevention and “gay friendly” health care.  Health departments should work closely with the MSM community to develop websites that are responsive their health needs and preferences.