Young gay men were eight times more likely to have unprotected sex when they’re in a “serious” relationship than during a casual sexual encounter, according to a study conducted by Northwestern University in Illinois and reported by aidsmap. Study participants were ages 16 to 20, and half were African American. Previous findings have indicated that two thirds of HIV transmissions among U.S. gay men take place between primary sexual partners rather than through casual sex. Researchers suggest that future safer-sex outreach must emphasize the risks of unsafe sex in a serious relationship.

To read the aidsmap article, click here.