Past survey on gay sex not designed to address homophobia
I refer to the letter “Controlling HIV infections: Not much to do with Section 377A” (Sept 24).
The writer makes reference to the Asian Internet MSM Sex Survey conducted from 2009 to 2010. He said that because Section 377A was not mentioned in participants’ responses, that it therefore does not have much to do with HIV prevention. I should point out that this was a regional Internet-based survey on socio-demographic and behavioural correlates of HIV testing, with special interest on possible applications of Internet-based interventions.
The survey did not include Section 377A in the list of possible responses, nor ask if Section 377A was a factor influencing HIV testing among respondents.
This is because Section 377A is not applicable to most of the 10 countries under the Association of South-east Asian Nations (Asean) included in the survey; indeed it is only the former British colonies of Brunei, Malaysia and Singapore that inherited Section 377 in their penal codes.
As the survey was not designed to address homophobia, there were also no questions on the impact of homophobia, whether external or internal, on respondents accessing HIV testing. Results from that survey nevertheless did show that more than half of the respondents felt that HIV-related stigma was a deterrent for HIV testing.
The writer also refers to an online survey done by Action for Aids. I am not sure which survey he is referring to, but it is likely he has misunderstood or misrepresented the background, methodology and results of the survey.
First-hand experience of counsellors at the HIV anonymous test site offered by Action for Aids is clear and undeniable, that gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM) are marginalised and feel discriminated against by members of society due to Section 377A.
Section 377A fuels homophobia. Studies have consistently demonstrated that homophobia contributes to the spread of HIV and that internalised homophobia increases HIV risk.
As a result, many gay men and other MSM delay health-seeking behaviour including HIV testing and treatment. This harms their psychological and physical well-being.
In the broader context, Section 377A also weighs down HIV control. It is a major structural barrier that stands in the way of efforts to end HIV in Singapore.
