Martin, S. , Young, I. , Riddell, J. , Hilton, S. , McDaid, L. , Flowers, P. and Gilbert, M. (2015) P68 Sexual Health Literacy and Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM): A Scoping Review of Research Literature. BASHH Spring Conference 2015, Glasgow, UK, 1-3 June 2015. A38-A38. (doi: 10.1136/sextrans-2015-052126.111)
Full text not currently available from Enlighten.
Abstract
Background Health literacy is a priority for health policy. However, there is limited research on how health literacy influences sexual health, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM). Aim To review sexual health literacy research among MSM in high-resource countries (UK, Canada, USA, Australia). Methods We searched relevant databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Health and Psychosocial Instruments, Web of Science) to identify research which examined sexual health literacy and MSM explicitly and implicitly (using formal and informal articulations of health literacy) along with a set of sexual health and MSM terms. Relevant articles were identified, coded and assessed to illustrate the range of evidence available. Results We found no studies explicitly focusing on sexual health literacy, and three exploring health literacy. Findings highlight the need for tailored information, healthcare and promotion for different groups of MSM, variable health literacy levels, and the importance of social context. We found 611 articles that implicitly explored sexual health literacy. We analysed a sub-sample which focused on interactive health literacy (negotiating, applying knowledge and interaction). There was a strong focus on communication and negotiation (verbal, non-verbal and online) with sexual partners and health providers, and the varying contexts within which these interactions take place. Discussion We found no research on explicit sexual health literacy with MSM. Clinic-based interventions could use health literacy as a tool to improve sexual health. Findings suggest that tailored health information, communication skills, and the role of social context in shaping sexual health literacy skills could play a critical role.
| Item Type: | Conference or Workshop Item |
|---|---|
| Additional Information: | Abstract publihsed in Sexually Transmitted Infections, 91(Suppl 1):A38 |
| Status: | Published |
| Refereed: | Yes |
| Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: | McDaid, Professor Lisa and Hilton, Professor Shona and Young, Dr Ingrid and Patterson, Mrs Susan and Riddell, Miss Julie |
| Authors: | Martin, S., Young, I., Riddell, J., Hilton, S., McDaid, L., Flowers, P., and Gilbert, M. |
| College/School: | College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU |
| Journal Name: | Sexually Transmitted Infections |
| Publisher: | BMJ Publishing Group |
| ISSN: | 1368-4973 |
| ISSN (Online): | 1472-3263 |
University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record
Funder and Project Information
Funder and Project Information