Phylodynamics of HIV-1 Subtype B among the Men-Having-Sex-with-Men (MSM) Population in Hong Kong
2011

HIV-1 Subtype B Transmission Among MSM in Hong Kong

Sample size: 125 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Chen Jonathan Hon-Kwan, Wong Ka-Hing, Chan Kenny Chi-Wai, To Sabrina Wai-Chi, Chen Zhiwei, Yam Wing-Cheong

Primary Institution: University of Hong Kong

Hypothesis

What are the transmission dynamics of HIV-1 subtype B among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Hong Kong?

Conclusion

The study found that HIV-1 subtype B is primarily spreading among local Chinese MSM, with distinct transmission clusters identified.

Supporting Evidence

  • The study identified three separate subtype B epidemics among MSM in Hong Kong.
  • Most local Chinese MSM were infected within Hong Kong, while Caucasian MSM often caught infections abroad.
  • The median age of participants was 34 years, with a significant portion requiring antiretroviral treatment.

Takeaway

This study looked at how HIV spreads among men who have sex with men in Hong Kong and found that most infections are happening locally.

Methodology

The study used Bayesian phylogenetic analysis to investigate the transmission dynamics of HIV-1 subtype B in a cohort of MSM.

Limitations

The study may not fully represent the entire MSM population in Hong Kong due to the specific sample collection period and location.

Participant Demographics

The participants were primarily local Chinese males (88%) with a median age of 34 years.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0025286

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