A Centers for Disease Control (CDC) survey of men who have sex with men (MSM) using a Web site where men go to meet other men for sex found that while most of those surveyed had been tested for HIV in their lifetime, young MSM (ages 18-24) were three times less likely to have been tested than older MSM (over age 24).  Despite engaging in similar risk behaviors, 24 percent of 18 to 24 year olds surveyed had never been tested, compared to 6 percent of those over age 24.

The study also examined critical gaps in testing among young MSM, including access to and knowledge of HIV testing sites. Among the young MSM who had never been tested, a primary reason given was that they didn't know where to get an HIV test (38.6%).  Lack of insurance was cited by 28 percent. Additionally, geography was found to be a significant factor for MSM of all ages.  More than 70 percent of all MSM who had never been tested lived outside a major metropolitan area.  

CDC representatives told AIDS conference participants in Vienna that this underscores the need to improve access and increase awareness of testing, particularly among young MSM.   Studies show that the majority of those who know they are infected take steps to protect their partners.  However, many MSM are unaware of their status and may unknowingly be transmitting the virus to others.  A previous study of HIV prevalence in five U.S. cities found that 14 percent of young MSM between the ages of 18 and 24 were infected with HIV, but almost 80 percent were unaware they were infected.  

CDC recommends sexually active MSM be tested for HIV at least once a year. The earlier a person with HIV is diagnosed and linked to medical care, the better chance he or she has of living a long, full life.  Today, nearly one-third of those who are infected are diagnosed with AIDS within a year of their initial HIV diagnosis, indicating they already have been infected for many years.