Homosexuality stigma and HIV risk behaviors among HIV-negative men who have sex with men in Vietnam.

Stigma toward homosexuality plays an important role in the increased risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV among men who have sex with men (MSM). This study describes associations between three dimensions of homosexuality-related stigma (enacted, perceived and internalized) and HIV risk behaviors among HIV-negative MSM in Hanoi, Vietnam. A total of 1675 HIV-negative MSM were recruited from the baseline of a cohort study from 2017 to 2019 through respondent-driven, time-location and internet-based sampling strategies.

Validation of the alcohol, smoking and substance involvement screening test (ASSIST) for identifying methamphetamine use among people on methadone maintenance treatment in Vietnam.

Background And Aims: Identifying those who use methamphetamine or are at high risk of using methamphetamine is essential so that early, appropriate intervention can be made. This study evaluated the use of the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) for identifying methamphetamine use among people on methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) in Vietnam.

Methods: From June 2021 to May 2023, all people on MMT at 15 methadone clinics in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, were invited to participate in this study.