Beijing:
43-year-old Bei Fang is a former Chinese television anchor. But these days he is a counsellor for men who have sex with men, also known as MSM.
His new role is crucial given the fact that homosexual transmission of HIV is increasing rapidly in China. Over 12 per cent MSM are infected with HIV.
In China the odds of MSM having HIV is 45 times higher than the general population. High levels of HIV among MSM have been reported globally.
"Fewer than one in ten MSM have access to HIV prevention services epidemic continues to increase within this group.Whereas we see some successes in general population, we are seeing resurgence of HIV prevalence in western countries among MSM, and of course ongoing crucial epidemic MSM in developing countries," said Andy Seale, Senior Advisor for Sexual and Gender Diversity, Global Fund, China.
In China, the biggest barrier is stigma and homophobia in society. Bei Fang, who is an MSM himself, has not been able to come out of the closet to his family. Many MSM disguise their sexual preferences and marry women, which also puts their wives at risk. A majority of MSMs cannot access the HIV prevention services openly.
"Maybe the timing is not yet right, but we don't have a public figure or celebrity in China who is open about his status as MSM. Sometimes there is speculation, based on rumours about his marriage or from the way he behaves or dresses," said Bei Fang, Counsellor, Quiet Garden, China.
Though largely invisible, estimates say there are nearly 10 million MSM in China.
The Government has now launched a large scale campaign to address MSMs. Clinics have opened in 61 cities for HIV testing and counselling. While the patient's confidentiality is maintained, there is strong promotion of condom use, and treatment for sexually transmitted infections.
The effort is to mainstream services for MSMs from a rational, public health perspective. There are a few clinics run by NGOs that operate from Government hospitals.
But a wide spread acceptance of MSM is what many think, will be the best HIV prevention programme.