Human Papillomavirus Testing and Infection Status Among Men Who Have Sex With Men Using Geosocial Networking Apps.

Objective To assess the human papillomavirus(HPV)testing and infection status among men who have sex with men(MSM)using geosocial networking apps in China and explore the influencing factors,thus providing evidence for designing effective prevention and control strategies for this population. Methods The participants were recruited via the Blued7.23 app from July 15 to August 2,2024.Univariate and multivariate Logistic regression models were used to analyze the factors associated with HPV testing and infection among MSM. Results Among the 1 080 participants,23.3% had undergone HPV testing,and 43.3% of those tested were positive for HPV.The main reason for HPV testing was the presence or suspicion of HPV-related symptoms(n=224,58.9%).The multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that the MSM who had higher levels of HPV knowledge,had higher income,and self-identified as homosexuals were more likely to undergo HPV testing.Moreover,the MSM who had higher levels of HPV knowledge,self-identified as homosexuals,had sex with women in the past six months,and had infected human immunodeficiency virus were identified as high-risk groups for HPV infection. Conclusions In China,the HPV testing rate is low among MSM using geosocial networking apps.However,the prevalence of HPV infection remains high.Therefore,the government and communities should enhance HPV knowledge dissemination,promote HPV testing,and improve the accessibility and quality of HPV testing services.These measures can increase the testing coverage and effectively control the spread of HPV among MSM.

Duke Scholars

Author Shenglan Tang Population Health Sciences