The 2015 PREVAGAY Study: Initial Findings on HIV

Santé publique France has released the initial HIV findings from the PREVAGAY study, which surveyed men who have sex with men (MSM) frequenting gay social venues in five French cities*. These findings are detailed in an article in the Weekly Epidemiological Bulletin (BEH) and in five regional reports.The PREVAGAY study is set against an epidemiological backdrop in which MSM are the only group in which the number of new HIV diagnoses is not decreasing. At the same time, behavioral surveys have observed a decline in consistent condom use among this population. Furthermore, the prevention landscape has shifted with the improved efficacy of antiretroviral treatments and the promotion of "combined" prevention that integrates behavioral interventions, screening strategies, and antiretroviral treatment.

High HIV prevalence

  • The HIV prevalence rate for all five cities was estimated at 14%

  • HIV prevalence ranged from 8% in Lille to 17% in Nice

Figure 1. HIV prevalence by city – Prevagay 2015, weighted data

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Excerpt from the Lille report: Prevagay 2015 Report, Lille. HIV seroprevalence survey conducted among men who have sex with men frequenting gay social venues

  • The proportion of diagnosed HIV infections among all MSM testing positive was 92%, with no difference across cities

  • The proportion of HIV-positive MSM on antiretroviral therapy was estimated at 95%, with no difference across cities

  • Condom non-use varied according to MSM serostatus

These data help guide public policies regarding the fight against HIV and contribute to their evaluation, particularly screening strategies and prevention efforts targeting men who have sex with men (MSM).

This study was conducted in partnership with the National Reference Centers (CNR) for HIV and for viral hepatitis B, C, and Delta, the National Intervention Team for Prevention and Health in the Workplace (ENIPSE), and Inserm, with financial support from ANRS (France Recherche Nord&Sud; AIDS-HIV-Hepatitis), Sidaction, and the Regional Health Agencies (ARS) of the regions encompassing the five cities included in the study.

The PREVAGAY Study:

The 2015 PREVAGAY study is a multicenter survey of HIV and hepatitis B and C seroprevalence conducted among men who have sex and frequent gay social venues (bars, saunas, backrooms) in Lille, Lyon, Montpellier, Nice, and Paris from September to December 2015.This study consisted of two concurrent and linked components: self-collection of capillary blood drops from the fingertip on filter paper, and an anonymous self-administered behavioral questionnaire.

For more information

*Lille, Lyon, Montpellier, Nice, and Paris