Human Immunodeficiency Virus Prevalence Is Increasing Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China: Findings From a Review and Meta-Analysis

Background and Method: Multiple studies reported a fast-spreading human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China. This study aimed to estimate the magnitude and time trends of HIV prevalence among MSM in different geographical regions of China through a systemic review and meta-analysis. Results: A total of 94 articles were identified (25 in English and 69 in Chinese) and analyzed. National HIV prevalence among Chinese MSM has increased over this period, from 1.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.8%-2.4%) in 2001 to 5.3% (95% CI: 4.8%-5.8%) in 2009. MSM in Southwest China have the highest HIV prevalence, of 11.4% (95% CI: 9.6%-13.5%) in comparison with other regions, which range 3.5% to 4.8%. Conclusion: Significant increases in HIV prevalence among MSM were consistently observed across all Chinese regions. There is an urgent need for implementation of effective public health interventions to curb the spread of HIV infection among MSM across China, especially in the Southwest.