HCV knowledge and attitudes among HIV-negative MSM and MSM living with HIV in China: results from a cross-sectional online survey

Abstract

Abstract Background Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at high risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, especially for those living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Learning about HCV-related knowledge and attitudes of MSM is essential to inform health promotion interventions development. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted across seven provinces of China from December 2021 to January 2022. All MSM living with HIV were recruited offline, whereas the recruitment ratios for HIV-negative MSM were half online and half offline. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, sexual behaviors, knowledge and attitudes about HCV were collected through an online survey. Multivariable logistic regressions were used to determine associated factors. Results Only 39.3% (33/84) of HIV-negative men and 44.0% (37/84) of men living with HIV had a good level of HCV knowledge. One-third (32.1%, 27/84) of HIV-negative men and 41.7% (35/84) of men living with HIV reported a positive attitude towards HCV. For HIV-negative men, positive attitude was associated with multiple sexual partners (aOR: 5.8, 95%CI:1.9–18.1) and recreational substances use (aOR: 3.1, 95%CI: 1.0-9.4). For men living with HIV, knowledge was associated with disclosing sexual orientation (aOR: 7.0, 1.9–26.0), multiple sexual partners (aOR: 0.2, 0.1-1.0), recreational substances use (aOR: 3.7, 95%CI: 1.1–13.1) and HBV testing history (aOR: 7.3, 95%CI: 1.6–32.7); positive attitude was associated with the use of recreational substances (aOR: 3.1, 95%CI: 1.1-9.0). Conclusions The majority of Chinese MSM showed inadequate knowledge and negative attitude about HCV irrespective of HIV infection status. More tailored education campaigns and multicomponent interventions are required.