Publications by authors named "D E Mercey"

Men who have sex with men (MSM) attending sexual health (SH) clinics are at high risk for HIV acquisition and are disproportionately affected by sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We collected standardised behavioural data from MSM attending clinics to characterise sexual behaviours and identify predictors for HIV and STIs. In 2012–2013, HIV-negative MSM attending five SH clinics in England reported sexual behaviours in the previous three months via a self-administered questionnaire.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Background: HIV incidence in men who have sex with men (MSM) in the UK has remained unchanged over the past decade despite increases in HIV testing and antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage. In this study, we examine trends in sexual behaviours and HIV testing in MSM and explore the risk of transmitting and acquiring HIV.

Methods: In this serial cross-sectional study, we obtained data from ten cross-sectional surveys done between 2000 and 2013, consisting of anonymous self-administered questionnaires and oral HIV antibody testing in MSM recruited in gay social venues in London, UK.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Objectives: The aim of the study was to explore HIV testing frequency among UK men who have sex with men (MSM) in order to direct intervention development.

Methods: Cross-sectional surveys were completed by 2409 MSM in Edinburgh, Glasgow and London in 2011 and a Scotland-wide online survey was carried out in 2012/13. The frequency of HIV testing in the last 2 years was measured.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Triple-site testing (using pharyngeal, rectal, and urethral/first-void urine samples) for Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis using nucleic acid amplification tests detects greater numbers of infections among men who have sex with men (MSM). However, triple-site testing represents a cost pressure for services. MSM over 18 years of age were eligible if they requested testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), reported recent sexual contact with either C.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Background: Active recall can improve reattendance rates and could increase retesting rates and detection of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but the best strategy remains uncertain.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of active recall for HIV and/or STI testing. We searched six electronic databases using terms for HIV, STIs, tests and active recall (defined as a reminder to retest for HIV/STIs) for randomised, non-randomised and observational English-language studies published between 1983 and 2013.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF