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Gay men, HIV and health promotion market research
Abstract

Gay men, HIV and health promotion market research

Anna Kassulke, Jane A Gregg and Lily O'Hara
2007 University Research Conference Book of Abstracts, p.11
University Research Conference: Advancing Sustainable Regions, 2007 (Sunshine Coast, Australia, 21-Nov-2007)
2007
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Abstract

Public Health and Health Services HIV prevention
This research took place at a time when statistically significant increases in HIV diagnoses were reported in Queensland for the year 2005, and the number of reported cases in early 2007 exceeded those usually recorded for an entire year. The research set out to explore: the attitudes of gay men to HIV and HIV prevention; their perceptions of current health promotion activities to prevent HIV; and their role in HIV prevention. The qualitative methods of focus groups and key informant interviews were used. Participants were residents of Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast of Queensland. It was stated that many emotional issues such as self esteem, together with feelings of grief and oppression in the gay community, had not yet been adequately addressed. Complacency and fatigue were identified as barriers to promotingsafe sex messages. Concern was expressed about the lack of involvement of general practitioners and local government authorities in HIV prevention. The participants revealed a high level of awareness of the current status of HIV prevention and the associated problems and opportunities. There was agreement that gay men must continue to provide leadership in activities aimed at promoting health and reducing the incidence of HIV infection. Emotional issues such as self esteem and feelings of grief and oppression need to be addressed in health promotion actions aimed at preventing HIV/AIDS. Strategies need to be developed to increase the involvement of general practitioners, other health professionals and local government authorities in HIV prevention.

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