Current status of substance use among men who have sex with men using HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) at SHP clinic - Hanoi in 2021

Abstract

Men who have sex with men (MSM) using substances are more likely to engage in risky behaviors and non-adherence to PrEP treatment. A cross-sectional study was conducted, utilized data from 397 medical records on the REDCap platform of clients undergoing pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) therapy at SHP clinic from January to December 2021 aimed to describe the prevalence of substance use and associated factors. The results revealed that the majority (86.15%) of MSM had a history of substance use, with over 45% reporting the use of two or more substances. Alcohol, beer, poppers, and tobacco were the most commonly used substances. Younger MSM were at a significantly higher risk of substance use, ranging from over 1,70 times (95%CI: 1.03 – 3.27) (< 25 years old) và 2,11 times (95%CI: 1.65 – 3.58) (25 – 49 years old) compared to older individuals (above 49 years old). The correlation between HIV risk behaviors and exposure to HIVinfected individuals with substance use has not been found yet, necessitating further research to elucidate each association. Substance use intervention programs for MSM should focus on high-rate substance groups such as alcohol, beer, and poppers.