'I count myself as being in a different world': African gay and bisexual men living with HIV in London. An exploratory study

Authors: Paparini, Sara¹; Doyal, Lesley²; Anderson, Jane¹

Source: AIDS Care, Volume 20, Number 5, May 2008 , pp. 601-605(5)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

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Abstract:

The experiences of men from African backgrounds living with HIV who are gay/bisexual have so far been overlooked in the research on HIV in the UK. Little is known about the ways that HIV impacts on this population. We report on an exploratory qualitative study with 8 gay/bisexual men from 7 different African countries living with HIV in London, based on in depth semi structured interviews and a thematic analysis. HIV testing and diagnosis, disclosure to others, social and sexual networks, sexual relationships and practices, use of health services and coping mechanisms emerged as key themes. Men with insecure residency status in the UK and those without work had additional challenges to meet. Men described the constant juggling required to balance the complex and sometimes contradictory realities of life as a gay/bisexual man, an African and an HIV positive person. Actual and perceived stigma was a key barrier to accessing appropriate practical and emotional support from families, social network or religious organisations.

Keywords: HIV; African gay men; sexual orientation

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09540120701867040

Affiliations: 1: Centre for the Study of Sexual Health and HIV, Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom 2: School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom

Publication date: 2008-05-01

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