The European MSM Internet Survey

The EMIS-2017 report presents a comprehensive analysis of the results of a 2017 survey among men who have sex with men (MSM). The survey collected comparable data in 33 languages to understand changes over time in the behaviour, needs and interventions affecting HIV incidence among MSM in comparison with results from the EMIS survey in 2010. Almost 128,000 MSM from 48 countries in Europe responded to the online survey in 2017. The results show considerable differences across the countries reflecting Europe’s diversity with respect to sexual health and behaviour of MSM.

Sex between men remains the predominant mode of HIV transmission in EU/EEA countries, where the first signs of a decline in reported new cases resulted from a 20% drop in new diagnoses among MSM, from 2015 to 2017.

Based on the survey results, the report also summarises recommendations on how to address identified needs and gaps. For example, the authors conclude that national prevention programmes should continue to provide and promote comprehensive STI testing, tailored to the sexual repertoire of MSM. Reducing the stigma associated with (homo) sexual practices, comprehensive testing policies and affordable costs are essential to adequate STI screening.

The survey findings aim to inform HIV and STI prevention and care programmes and the comparable data allow monitoring of national progress in this area.

EMIS-2017 was executed by Sigma Research (London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine) as part of European Surveys and Training to Improve MSM Community Health (ESTICOM).

Source: ECDC, 29 August 2019