February 18, 2009

WHO: Health Services in Asia Are Failing MSM

The World Health Organization (WHO) warned that the HIV/AIDS epidemic may get worse in Asia unless countries immediately expand access to services to men who have sex with men (MSM), Xinhua News Agency reports.  

There are 10 million MSM in Asia, more than in any other country, according to a press release issued by the Manila-based WHO Western Pacific Regional Office. However, targeted prevention interventions only reach 1 percent of this high-risk group. The WHO added that the risk of MSM getting HIV in China is 45 times higher than men in general.

Massimo Ghidinelli, MD, WHO’s regional adviser in HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections, said better access to HIV intervention services should be provided to MSM, which account for a major increase in the region’s HIV/AIDS cases.

The lack of better access to HIV/AIDS services can be traced to the stigma and discrimination associated with homosexual sex, which is discouraged in certain societies. In addition, discrimination prevents MSM from disclosing their sexual orientation or using HIV services, which, according to the WHO, increases their vulnerability.

In response, WHO is calling for a regional meeting February 18 to 20 in Hong Kong to discuss the issue. HIV/AIDS specialists from Asian governments as well as regional experts and representatives from nongovernment organizations are expected to attend.

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