Process evaluation of a bio-behavioural HIV research combined with prevention among GBMSM in 13 European countries

Abstract

Comparative European data using Second Generation Surveillance System (SGSS) are scarce among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men. This study evaluated the implementation of Sialon II, a bio-behavioural HIV research combined with targeted HIV prevention in 13 European cities conducted in collaboration with community partners. A mixed-methods process evaluation assessed the project's coverage, outputs, quality, challenges and opportunities for improvement. Data collected through structured questionnaire from 71 data collectors from community-based organisations and semi-structured interviews with 17 managers of participating gay venues were analysed. Overall implementation was successful, achieving 4901 valid behavioural questionnaires and obtaining 4716 biological samples. Challenges in conducting bio-behavioural research in gay venues related to strict research protocols and unfavourable characteristics of venues. Formative research, collaboration with community gay venues, and offering HIV prevention emerged as facilitators. Community researchers' training was crucial for fidelity to research protocols, increased trust amongst communities and enabled data collectors to effectively address practical problems in the field. Scientifically sound SGSS with community participation is feasible and allows for including 'hard-toreach' populations. Prevention benefits include awareness raising, capacity building and sexual health promotion in gay venues. The findings are beneficial for epidemiological research among other HIV key populations.

Sexual satisfaction, an indicator of sexual health and well-being? Insights from STI/HIV prevention research in European men who have sex with men

“…This study used a single item to measure sexual satisfaction, as the settings of participant recruitment did not favour extensive surveys. 46 Although Schwartz and Young rightly point out that using the term satisfied to measure satisfaction presumes that everyone knows what it means, while sexual satisfaction might mean different things to different people, this was part of the objectives of including this question in a biobehavioural survey. 73 The study’s cross-sectional design precludes assessment of the causal direction of associations.…”

“…They also participated in the interpretation and dissemination of the findings along with other stakeholders. 46 …”

A Guide to Selecting Participatory Research Methods Based on Project and Partnership Goals

“… Washburn et al (2020) used REM to evaluate a health education program and capture program impacts beyond participant behavior change to identify community-level ripple effects. Others have used similar approaches to capture ripple effects of participatory research ( Dias et al, 2021 ; Zimmerman et al, 2019 ).…”