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Intersecting HIV Prevention Practice and Truth Among Black MSM

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HIV/AIDS in Rural Communities

Abstract

Black MSM are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS in the United States. Although the disparities in infection rates between Black MSM and MSM of other races have been well documented, less is known about the factors that contribute to those disparities—particularly psychosocial, cultural, and historical factors. The lack of understanding regarding these factors can have serious implications for effective HIV/AIDS service provision. This chapter provides an overview of intersectionality as a framework through which the lived experiences, HIV risk, and social oppressions of Black MSM can be better understood in order to inform HIV prevention and care practice.  Examples of intersectionality-based research with Black MSM in the Deep South are discussed, and recommendations for incorporating intersectionality into HIV service provision are also provided.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    The term condomless anal intercourse (CAI) is used instead of the more traditionally used term unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) to use more precise language based on modern HIV prevention strategy advances (e.g., pre-exposure prophylaxis or antiretroviral treatment).

  2. 2.

    The “Deep South” region was defined as the states of Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina.

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Smallwood, S.W., Carter, J.W., Odusanya, A.O. (2017). Intersecting HIV Prevention Practice and Truth Among Black MSM. In: Parks, F., Felzien, G., Jue, S. (eds) HIV/AIDS in Rural Communities. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-56239-1_9

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