Social and sexual networks of newly diagnosed people living with HIV: a qualitative social network analysis

This study revealed important differences in the networks of gay-identified MSM, heterosexuals and hetero- and bisexual identified MSM influencing sexual risk taking and prevention behavior. Future prevention initiatives should be inclusive and mainstreamed to ensure to address those who do not identify as belonging established key populations. Awareness of HIV and biomedical prevention should be raised in the general population, providing a base on which tailored prevention can be built. Involving family physicians and socially empowering people living with HIV may help to decrease anticipated and internalized HIV stigma.