eSexualHealth: Preferences to Use Technology to Promote Sexual Health Among Men Who Have Sex with Men and Trans and Gender Diverse People

Abstract

AbstractObjectivesGay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) and trans and gender diverse (TGD) people are disproportionately affected by poorer sexual health outcomes compared to heterosexual populations. We aimed to explore the preferences of GBMSM and TGD for using eHealth for sexual health (eSexualHealth).MethodsWe distributed an anonymous online survey among the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and other people of diverse sexuality or gender (LGBTIQA+) community in Australia. The survey collected data on sociodemographic characteristics and sexual behaviours, their preferences for app/website functions and preferred HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing reminders. We used descriptive statistics to summarise the characteristics of the study population. Free-text responses were thematically analysed.ResultsOf 466 participants included, most identified as cisgender males (92.7%). The median age was 48 (interquartile range [IQR]: 37-56). For accessing sexual health-related information, 160 (34.6%) would use either a website or an app, 165 (32.7%) would prefer a website, 119 (25.8%) would prefer an app, and 33 (7.1%) would not use either platform. There was no significant difference between GBMSM and TGD people. Participants were most interested in information about STI clinics, HIV/STI hotspots, and sexual health education. Participants stressed the need for privacy and anonymity when using eHealth. Regarding reminders to test for HIV/STIs, receiving regular SMS was most popular (112/293, 38.2%), followed by regular emails (55/293 18.8%) and a reminder function on their phone (48/293, 16.4%).ConclusionOur study suggests a promising future for eHealth among GBMSM and TGD people. Sexual health is still a stigmatised area, and eHealth may circumvent barriers this population faces.What is already known about the topicGay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) and trans- and gender diverse people (TGD) have poorer sexual health outcomes compared to heterosexualseHealth (or digital interventions) to improve sexual health is a growing areaWhat this study addsOur survey among Australian GBMSM and TGD individuals document their preferences for using eHealth to optimize their sexual healthHow this study might affect research, practice or policyBeing aware of preferences for eHealth can inform resource allocation and future development of features wanted by target populations