Willingness to participate in HIV vaccine clinical trials among Chinese men who have sex with men

HIV vaccine trials require volunteers. Little is known about willingness to participate (WTP) in HIV vaccine trials among Chinese MSM. A survey of 550 MSM was conducted from March to June 2008, in Beijing, China. Data were collected on demographics, behaviors, perceptions about HIV/AIDS and HIV vaccines, and concerns about participation in HIV vaccine clinical trials. Of study participants, 35.8% were definitely willing to participate, 35.1% were probably willing, 16.4% were probably not willing, and 12.7% were definitely not willing. Analyses suggest that perceived family support, perceived protection against HIV infection and fear that participation would result in social distancing were associated with WTP. MSM in China may be good candidates for HIV vaccine trials. Further studies are needed to evaluate actual enrollment.