HIV Testing Among “MSM”: Prevention Technologies, Sexual Moralities and Serologic Self-surveillance

Abstract

Abstract Global AIDS guidelines have prioritized the expansion of HIV testing among the groups most exposed to the virus, such as those referred to as men who have sex with men (MSM). This paper analyses the relationships between the production of prevention strategies and sexual moralities based on the results of a systematic review of academic literature about testing with gays and MSM (2005-2015, using the PubMed, Sociological Abstract and Lilacs databases). The analysis of 65 articles reveals the recruitment strategies for identifying target-subjects and how they are held responsible for their serological self-surveillance, including routine tests. The findings also point to a diversification of testing locations. Implicit assumptions about sexuality and gay affection are conveyed through the interventions’ emphasis on sociability spaces and occasional sex, especially when facilitated by the use of apps. Attentive to the symbolic dimensions of the new prevention technologies and strategies, we argue that the expansion of testing with a focus on “MSM” signals a displacement of health interventions. If before actions to control the epidemic sought to intervene in sexual practices, the current efforts are concentrated on promoting self-surveillance of one’s serological status.