Public Health Scene

Gay communities—such as clubs, bars, events and neighborhoods—appear to be changing worldwide in light of several key factors, including Internet dating and achievement of civil rights, according to new University of Minnesota research by Simon Rosser.

“With the exception of London and possibly New York, gay bars and culture are changing. On almost all measures, we’re seeing the same trend: decreasing number of gay bars/clubs, decreased attendance at gay events, less volunteerism in gay or HIV/AIDS organizations and, less gay media, resulting in an overall decline in gay visibility,� said Rosser, a professor in the School of Public Health’s Division of Epidemiology and Community Health. "The biggest reason for these changes, we think, is the Internet."

With HIV cases on the increase, Rosser says the Internet could be used to promote HIV prevention.

Listen to Rosser discuss his study
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