Health
‘The numbers are staggering’
14 percent of gay, bi men in D.C. have HIV: study
Local activists and health officials this week called for new approaches in HIV prevention following a city study that shows 14 percent of tested gay and bisexual men were HIV positive and 25 percent of black gay male participants were positive.
During a March 29 town hall meeting organized by the D.C. Center for the LGBT community to discuss the study’s findings, a number of AIDS activists noted the study included a sample of just 500 male respondents and did not cover the full demographics of all men who have sex with men.
But most activists speaking at the forum said the study reveals a number of important new findings showing high-risk behavior among those sampled and should not be dismissed because it’s less than perfect.
“Because we’ve determined that it is not a truly representative sample due to methodological limitations of the research, we can’t say that 14 percent of D.C.’s gay [and men who have sex with men] population is HIV positive,” said Daniel O’Neill, chair of the D.C. Center’s HIV Prevention Working Group.
“The reality: It’s probably far worse than 14 percent, as the data is both dated and under-represents some of the most at-risk subgroups.”
Dr. Shannon Hader, director of the D.C. HIV/AIDS Administration, opened the town hall meeting with a 45-minute presentation explaining the study’s findings and comparing it to existing city data on HIV prevalence among MSM, homosexuals and injection drug users, the three key groups used by researchers to measure the AIDS epidemic.
Hader and O’Neill were among five panelists who spoke at the town hall meeting and fielded questions from about 50 people who attended. The other panelists included Jose Gutierrez, a gay Latino activist affiliated with La Clinica Del Pueblo, a D.C. clinic that provides services to people with HIV/AIDS; Ken Pettigrew, director of programs for Us Helping Us, a local AIDS advocacy group that provides services for mostly black gay men; and Calvin Gerald, an organizer with the D.C. Center’s HIV Prevention Working Group.
Hader’s presentation followed the city’s release of the study’s findings March 26 at a news conference outside the Wanda Alston House for LGBT youth in Northeast D.C.
A first-of-its-kind look into the behavior of men who have sex with men in the District of Columbia, the study’s main finding was that 14 percent of those sampled were HIV positive. The figure represents an HIV-positive rate nearly five times higher than the 3 percent HIV infection rate among all adults and teens in the city, according to separate data gathered by the HIV/AIDS Administration.
The MSM study also found that black men who have sex with men, who participated in the study, had an HIV infection rate of 25 percent, compared to an 8 percent infection rate among white MSM who participated in the study.
“The numbers are staggering, but they are changeable,” says a report accompanying the study, which was conducted for the city by George Washington University’s School of Public Health and Health Services. “We are convinced that there are no foregone conclusions to getting HIV for men who have sex with men.”
Although gay and AIDS activists attending Monday’s town hall meeting said the high HIV positive rate findings among MSM did not surprise them, some expressed surprise and puzzlement over other findings. Among them are that men under age 30 “generally had safer sex behaviors” while men over 30 “got tested less and used condoms less and had more sex partners.”
The study also found that more than 40 percent of the men participating did not use a condom at the time of their last sexual encounter and more than one-third did not know the HIV status of their last sex partner.
Another development that came as a surprise to many activists, more than half of the study’s participants reported an annual income of $50,000 or greater, an education significantly higher than a high school degree, and were believed to be “socially connected” with the LGBT community.
Hader and some of the AIDS activists attending the town hall meeting said this suggests that many gay men who should be aware of the need for greater condom use and overall less risky behaviors were nevertheless continuing to engage in risky behavior.
In a finding said to highlight a seeming paradox among black MSM, the study found that black MSM of all ages used condoms more frequently than whites. Yet the infection rate for black MSM remains high, the report says, most likely because the number of infected black MSM is significantly higher than white MSM, increasing the chance of infection even if safer sex is practiced most of the time.
“Though white men were more likely to engage in higher risk sexual behavior, more men of color were impacted by HIV,” says the report.
The report also notes that, “Contrary to some perceptions, younger men generally had safer sex behaviors, while older men got tested less and used condoms less and had more sex partners.”
The study found that about 66 percent of black MSM reported using a condom during their most recent instance of anal sex, compared to about 47 percent of white MSM.
Hader said the study was conducted using protocols established by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention for similar studies in other cities.
She said that similar MSM studies will be conducted every three years, alternating with studies of HIV-related heterosexual sexual behavior and studies of injection drug users conducted.
“The data are the data are the data,” she said at the town hall meeting. “They’re not the whole picture or the only picture, but they’re really useful information.
“And they’re not the answers So my hope is our data is to be used to start to come up with the answers, to reinforce anything we think we’re on the right track on, to bring up new ideas.”
‘We have more work to do’
D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty joined Hader and other officials with the Department of Health and its HIV/AIDS Administration at the news conference March 26 announcing the release of the study.
D.C. Council member David Catania (I-At Large), who chairs the D.C. City Council’s Committee on Health, also participated in the news conference. He praised Fenty and Hader for working hard during the past three years to transform what he called a highly flawed public health data gathering system into a “world class” system recognized and praised by health departments in other cities and states.
Fenty joined Hader and Dr. Pierre Vigilance, director of the D.C. Department of Health, in noting that the study’s troubling findings of high HIV infection rates among MSM were offset by what they said were highly useful new data generated by the study.
“Knowing the facts about our HIV/AIDS epidemic improves how we fight this disease,” Fenty said.
Pointing to a separate study released last week, he noted that, “we’ve already shown that we can make progress against HIV by reducing AIDS cases and deaths and increasing people getting into medical care.”
“This study shows that we have more work to do to fight HIV/AIDS among men who have sex with men,” he said.
The D.C. MSM study consisted of 500 participants who were recruited “at open air venues, gyms, bars, restaurants, and clubs where men who have sex with men tend to frequent,” says the study report. “Participants were interviewed at these venues, which were located in Wards 1, 2, 5, 6 and 8.”
The study, which was conducted in 2008, doesn’t identify the specific venues, and representatives of the GWU team that conducted the survey declined at the news conference to disclose the names of the venues.
The report acknowledges that the study did not reach all MSM and most likely under-represents some groups, including MSM who don’t identify as gay or bisexual, and younger white MSM.
It notes that of the nearly 100 white men under age 30 who participated in the study, none were found to be HIV positive.
Vigilance and Hader said that while most of the MSM participants in the study reported having been tested for HIV, 40 percent did not know they were HIV positive until they were tested at the time of the study. Among those who tested positive during the study, nearly three-quarters had seen a doctor or other health care provider at least once in the previous 12 months, but were not tested.
Vigilance and Hader noted that a D.C. public health policy established four years ago calls for all adults in the city to be tested routinely for HIV during regular doctor visits, just as they are tested for high blood pressure and diabetes.
As a result of the study’s findings, Vigilance said the health department is calling on MSM to be tested for HIV twice a year instead of the once-a-year recommendation made four years ago.
Hader also announced at the press conference that the Department of Health is launching a new MSM HIV screening project in partnership with the Whitman-Walker Clinic and the Crew Club, a gay male gym and social venue.
According to Hader, the yearlong project will screen about 500 men at the Crew Club considered to be at high risk for HIV. She said pharmaceutical company Gilead Sciences, Inc., is contributing $40,000 to the project and the Crew Club is contributing more than $5,000 along with special accommodations on its premises to conduct the screening.
She said that while the 14 percent HIV infection rate among MSM in D.C. is too high, previous MSM studies in Baltimore, Los Angeles, Miami, New York and San Francisco found a combined infection rate of 25 percent in 2005. She noted that in Baltimore, the MSM infection rate was found to be 40 percent.
‘What are we doing wrong?’
The panelists who joined Hader at the town hall meeting and members of the audience expressed differing views on whether existing HIV prevention programs in the city, including those operated by community organizations like Us Helping Us and the Whitman-Walker Clinic, have been effective in their mission.
“There is a notion to say what are we doing wrong?” said Pettigrew of Us Helping Us. “But you can also ask, ‘What are we doing right?’”
He noted that one of the key findings in the MSM study was that men under 30 years old had a lower rate of HIV infection and were engaging in less risky behavior.
Ernest Hopkins, a veteran AIDS activist involved with programs in D.C. and San Francisco, said the D.C. government has been less aggressive and less visible in its AIDS prevention messages than in the past. He and D.C. Center Executive Director David Mariner called for greater city funding for community based HIV programs, including programs organized by the Center.
AIDS activist Chris Lane, a former official with the Sexual Minority Youth Assistance League, noted that a mental health component appeared to be missing from the MSM study.
Hader said the full scientific report on the study, which is to be published soon on the Department of Health’s web site, discusses mental health-related issues and that the city would pursue these issues when its reviews its overall HIV prevention programs in the next few months.
Gerald of the Center’s HIV Prevention Working Group cautioned against placing all the responsibility of HIV prevention on the city. He expressed concern that not enough black gay men have attended meetings and planning sessions to address the issue.
“We should not just wait for the government to do something,” he said. “We should educate our own people in the black community. We can let the government go so far, but we have to take it up from there.”
The study, titled “MSM in D.C.: A Life Long Commitment to Stay HIV Free,” is available through the Department of Health’s website, www.doh.dc.gov.
Cannabis Culture
LGBTQ people, weed, and mental health: what you need to know
Community uses marijuana at much higher rates than general population
Uncloseted Media published this story on May 7.
By SPENCER MACNAUGHTON | In 2025, the global cannabis market size was valued at nearly $103 billion. By 2034, that number is expected to explode by roughly 1,400 percent to more than $1.43 trillion.
In short, as an increasing number of countries legalize marijuana use, everyone is starting to consume a lot more weed. And LGBTQ people tend to use cannabis at much higher rates than the general population. One study found that 55 percent of lesbian and 45 percent of gay young adults use marijuana, compared to about 33 percent and 37 percent, respectively, of their straight counterparts.
As LGBTQ people face a mental health crisis, the mainstream stereotypes that depict weed as an antidote for anxiety, panic and depression aren’t painting the full picture. And that could be exacerbating the mental health struggles so many queer people, and especially youth, face.
Here’s what the research demonstrates about marijuana and its effects on mental health:
- Multiple studies suggest a link between marijuana use and an increased risk of mental health disorders, including schizophrenia, depression and anxiety in individuals who are genetically predisposed.
- One study found that daily marijuana use, especially among younger people, makes some individuals seven times more likely to develop psychosis.
The increase in higher-potency strains of marijuana could pose unknown risks. In 1995, the average content of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in confiscated marijuana was less than 4 percent. In 2022, it was more than 16 percent. Researchers don’t know the full extent of the impact that these higher concentrations can have on mental health and especially on younger people whose brains are still developing.
- A systematic review of studies published between 2013 and 2025 found damning results for the mental health of young cannabis users:
They were 51 percent more likely to experience depression, 58 percent more likely to experience anxiety, between 50 and 65 percent more likely to experience suicidal ideation and 80 to 87 percent more likely to have attempted suicide.
- While the above stats paint a grim picture, there is also some research that suggests benefits of cannabis use:
- A 2025 systematic review found that “medicinal” weed showed some efficacy in relieving withdrawal symptoms of opioid use disorder. THC use has been associated with improvement of post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, bipolar symptoms and sleep quality.
- Other studies found that THC administered in a controlled setting was associated with a decrease of symptoms and adverse effects for a range of mental health disorders, including schizophrenia, psychotic symptoms, and anorexia nervosa.
Beyond what we pulled from academia, there is an astounding lack of information about the interplay between weed and mental health. As we dive deeper into Mental Health Awareness Month, I hope advocacy organizations, influencers and news outlets ramp up their coverage of this important topic that affects the countless LGBTQ weed smokers, many of whom are already struggling.
Health
UPDATED: Trans-led HIV clinic in Portsmouth struggles amid funding cuts
As states across the U.S. cut funding for HIV care this small clinic in Va, is still fighting
Two years ago, Nyonna Byers, a transgender woman from Portsmouth, Va., founded Ending Transmission of Sexual Infections (ETSI) Health Clinic to support a community she saw struggling with rising HIV rates. Now, as costs continue to climb and funding for HIV healthcare initiatives is being cut across the United States, Byers says her transgender identity has made it harder to secure the financial support her clinic needs to survive.
Portsmouth, with just under 100,000 people, is right across the Elizabeth River from Norfolk.
“We’re an HIV-led organization here in Portsmouth, providing services throughout the Hampton Roads area,” Byers told the Blade. “As a trans-led organization—with me as the founder and executive director—I’ve received a lot of rejection when it comes to funding. That’s one of the main reasons why we’re struggling to keep the clinic open. Without funding, we can’t provide HIV treatment or care, and then we’re just a theoretical organization—we can’t be impactful in the community we serve.”
She said the data clearly shows a need for increased investment in HIV care in Portsmouth, but the response from leadership has not matched the urgency of the crisis.
“Portsmouth is one of the smallest cities with one of the highest HIV rates, and there are very few HIV-led organizations or clinics here. The need is urgent, but the response doesn’t match it. We’re doing the work on the ground, but we’re not getting the support to sustain it. That disconnect is what’s hurting people the most.”
That need, Byers explained, continues to grow as ETSI struggles to meet the financial demands of the life-saving work it provides.
Portsmouth has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in Virginia, with roughly 736.9 cases per 100,000 people—a rate that exceeds both state and national averages.
“Leaders like the mayor and city council don’t focus on public health or social health. They focus more on development—building the city up physically—rather than investing in the health of the people. I’ve applied for funding multiple times and been denied. Every time I’ve asked for resources, I’ve been turned away.”
When asked why, Byers said the answer felt clear to her.
“I honestly believe I was denied funding because I’m trans. I told the mayor I was going to go public with it, because it’s not fair. We’re on the ground doing the work to end HIV, and we’re still not getting the support we need. That’s not just frustrating—it’s harmful.”
While she said local support has been lacking, Byers noted that the state has stepped in—though the funding still falls short of what is needed to sustain the clinic long term.
ETSI Health Clinic was included as a recipient of funding in the Virginia 2027–2028 Senate budget, receiving $50,000 per year from the Virginia General Fund. Byers specifically credited State Sen. Lillie Louise Lucas with helping secure that funding, which she said did not come from city leadership.
Byers shared that she has given up a lot to keep ETSI afloat, but the costs just keep coming.
“I’ve worked a lot of contracts—jobs paying $30 to $40 an hour—and poured that money into my clinic. But the downside is that I’m struggling personally. I’ve lost cars, I’ve lost a house—I’ve lost a lot to keep this clinic going. This work has cost me almost everything.”
She added that the impact of federal policy shifts is also being felt locally. As the Trump-Vance administration continues to roll back what it has described as unnecessary “DEI” spending, Byers said those decisions are affecting clinics like hers.
There was a time when the clinic was able to receive funding from Sentara Cares, the philanthropic program of Sentara Health, a not-for-profit healthcare system based in Virginia and North Carolina, but now they can’t.
“We had funding from Sentara Cares for three years, and it helped keep us going. Then when DEI initiatives started getting rolled back, that funding stopped. I was told directly that because of federal policy changes, they couldn’t fund the clinic. I broke down during that meeting, because it felt like they were really saying they couldn’t support us because of who we are.”
That lack of funding is compounded by broader gaps in healthcare access in the region. Portsmouth—the ninth most populous city in Virginia—does not have a hospital.
“There’s very limited access to care in Portsmouth. We don’t even have a hospital—people have to be transported to Norfolk. We’ve had high rates of syphilis, and the health department is only open a few days a week. A lot of people don’t trust it, and that leaves entire communities without care.”
Byers made it clear that this is more than a passion project for her—it is her life’s calling, and she would do nearly anything to keep it going.
“To be honest, I would go back to sex work before I let my clinic close. This is something I built from the ground up. I built this clinic with money I earned myself. I’m not going to let it disappear without a fight.”
She also pointed to gaps in education and outreach, which she says exacerbate HIV rates despite the availability of preventive measures.
“There’s almost no marketing or education about PrEP in the Hampton Roads area. If you go to places like D.C. or Atlanta, you see billboards and campaigns—but here, you don’t see anything. If people don’t see it, they don’t know about it. That lack of awareness is putting people at risk.”
It is also a deeply personal fight, she explained.
“I’ve lost friends to HIV. People say you can’t die from HIV anymore, but you can if you’re not in care. I’ve seen it firsthand, and that’s what motivates me to keep going. HIV doesn’t have to be a death sentence—but without support, it can become one.”
The Blade reached out to Portsmouth Mayor Shannon E. Glover for comment.
Glover disputed Byers’ claims that her clinic was treated unfairly, including her allegation that her transgender identity played a role in funding decisions.
“There’s no issue with Miss—with her and her organization. We have been in discussion, and quite frankly, the claims that she made as it relates to ‘we’re not treating her equitably and fairly because of her [being] transgender’ that is totally untrue,” Glover told the Blade via phone call. “I’ve talked to Miss Nyonna on a number of occasions, and that is categorically not true.”
Glover added that the city provides funding to various organizations and said he had directed Byers to seek support elsewhere.
“So I’m not understanding what her issues are,” he said. “But in any event, you know, we have funding that we provide to organizations. I’ve recommended other organizations to her. I’ve recommended that she go to the state where they have more flexibility with their budget and they could help her. So that’s what I’m prepared to tell you today. I’m not going to answer any questions. I just wanted to respond that her claim that we are mistreating her, not treating her fair, is totally untrue.”
To donate to ETSI, visit their donation page at ESTIhcvas.org/donate
Health
Housewives head to Capitol Hill to promote PrEP coverage
Bravo’s Real Housewives stars to lobby lawmakers for expanded PrEP access.
Stars from Bravo’s hit franchise “The Real Housewives” are heading to Capitol Hill next week to advocate for expanded access to HIV prevention and treatment.
On March 18, several well-known cast members — including NeNe Leakes, Phaedra Parks, Candiace Dillard Bassett, Erika Jayne, Luann de Lesseps, Melissa Gorga, and Marysol Patton — will travel to D.C. to participate in an advocacy event aimed at increasing awareness and coverage for pre-exposure prophylaxis, commonly known as PrEP.
The event, dubbed “Housewives on the Hill,” is being organized by MISTR, the nation’s largest telehealth platform focused on sexual health. The group’s founder and CEO, Tristan Schukraft, will join the reality television stars as they meet with lawmakers and legislative staff to discuss the importance of maintaining and expanding access to HIV prevention tools.
PrEP is a medication regimen that can, if taken properly, reduce the risk of contracting HIV through sex by up to 99 percent according to public health officials. Advocates say wider access to the medication — including through insurance coverage and telehealth services — is critical to reducing new HIV infections across the United States.
During their day on Capitol Hill, the Housewives are expected to meet with members of Congress and participate in conversations about federal policies affecting HIV prevention and treatment. Organizers say the reality stars will also share personal reflections about the continued impact of HIV on communities across the country and the importance of keeping prevention resources accessible.
The “Housewives on the Hill” event aims to use the cultural influence of the Bravo stars to spotlight HIV prevention efforts and encourage lawmakers to protect and expand access to lifesaving medication and treatment options. Organizers say the goal is simple: ensure that more Americans can access the tools they need to prevent HIV and maintain their sexual health.
Still marching: Rev. Troy Perry and the ongoing fight for liberation
Introducing Next-Generation Assisted Living & Memory Support.
Cedric Neal on his juicy narrator role in ‘Pippin’
Dual endorsement for Independent Council-at-large: Patterson or Crawford
