HIV Health Beliefs and Preventive Practices Among Men Having Sex with Men

HIV prevention among men who have sex with men remains a critical public health concern that requires context-specific, behavior-focused strategies. This study examined HIV health beliefs and preventive practices among men who have sex with men in Bohol, Philippines, to inform localized interventions. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used, employing an online survey to assess perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits, and barriers alongside condom-use self-efficacy in areas such as assertiveness, partner-related concerns, and control in high-risk situations. Participants were recruited through community networks to ensure access to a population often difficult to reach while maintaining confidentiality. The findings show that respondents generally recognized their risk of HIV infection and valued the benefits of condom use, yet demonstrated uncertainty regarding the seriousness of the disease and certain barriers to prevention. Self-efficacy was strongest in communication and negotiation of condom use but weakened in relational contexts where fear of partner reactions may influence behavior. Differences across demographic groups suggest that preventive practices are shaped by lived social experiences rather than knowledge alone. The observed associations further indicate that perceived benefits and barriers play a more immediate role in shaping behavior than perceptions of risk or severity. These results highlight the need for HIV interventions that go beyond awareness campaigns. Programs must strengthen negotiation skills, reduce stigma within interpersonal relationships, and address contextual factors such as social norms and situational risk. A more integrated and culturally grounded approach is necessary to align health beliefs with consistent and sustained preventive practices among men who have sex with men in local communities.