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Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
Participants will be able to:
1. Describe baseline levels of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of MSM about hepatitis A and B;
2. Identify differences among those immunized, infected with, and at-risk for hepatitis A and B; and
3. List recommended components for an MSM intervention.
Background:
Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk of hepatitis A (HAV) and hepatitis B (HBV) infection and should consider vaccination. However, vaccination levels are inadequate. As part of an investigation and intervention to increase awareness of and intention to receive vaccination among online MSM, data were gathered to measure demographics, knowledge, attitudes, risk behaviors, and vaccination practices.
Methods:
Measures were developed through a process of formative research including literature review, expert review, cognitive interviews, and pilot testing. The final survey was posted to www.GayHealth.com in February 2005.
Results:
MSM who were U.S. residents and over 15 years of age were eligible for inclusion. Most knew of the vaccines, the increased risk for MSM, transmission routes, consequences, and prevention methods. The majority were not worried about HAV and HBV, yet thought they were serious infections. Those at-risk had significantly different levels of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors compared to those who were immune.
Conclusions:
Using the Internet to collect data was effective in terms of cost, reach, and anonymity. Web-based interventions are needed for this population and should include: MSM's increased risk for HAV and HBV; modes of transmission and vaccine availability; consequences; importance of discussing sexual activities with healthcare providers; lack of vaccine side effects; and importance of knowing serostatus. Most healthcare providers should expand patient messages to include hepatitis screening and vaccination. This data will inform the design, implementation, and evaluation of an online health campaign for MSM. More research is needed to determine why many of those at-risk were not planning to get vaccinated.
See more of B2 - Hepatitis Prevention Campaigns for Men Who Have Sex With Men
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference