Wolcott, Connecticut
A 27-year-old male asked:
Why are gay people at greater risk for aids than straight people?
3 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Joel Gallantanswered
Infectious Disease 38 years experience
3 reasons: (1) for partly historical reasons, the prevalence of HIV is higher among gay men, which makes the likelihood of exposure higher for each sexual contact. (2) rectal cells are more easily infected than vaginal cells. (3) unlike heterosexuals, gay men can be both insertive and receptive (top and bottom), which means they can be infected through receptive sex and then transmit through insertive sex.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Robert Killian commented
General Practice 30 years experience
I think that if one looks worldwide at who has HIV the question becomes obviously incorrect. Many tens of millions of "straight" people have HIV.
Dec 27, 2013
Dr. Dominic Riganottianswered
Infectious Disease 27 years experience
Not so simple answer: Well.The HIV virus doesn't discriminate..But in general terms its the mechanical trauma of the anal sex and the easy transmisability. Condoms break way more easily in the rectum because of the tension of the constrictor muscles too.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Robert Killian commented
General Practice 30 years experience
The answer is extremely simple. They are not at greater risk than "straight" people.
Dec 27, 2013
Dr. Dominic Riganotti commented
Infectious Disease 27 years experience
Provided original answer
Beautifully put...I agree completely!
Dec 27, 2013
Dr. Robert Killiananswered
General Practice 30 years experience
Misinformed: Perhaps if you are asking only about the urban centers in america then the question would make sense. But worldwide your assumption falls apart. Hiv infections occur due to behavior that is risky. This includes intercourse, but also includes drug use with shared needles and other blood to blood contact. The epidemic in india and russia and in southern africa may open your eyes to the human tragedy.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Feb 4, 2017
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