Social capital, HIV risk-taking behaviors and suicidal ideation among gay mobile app using men who have sex with men in greater Tokyo

Abstract

Suicide is a major public health problem in Japan, where suicide rates are among the highest in the world. Globally, men who have sex with men (MSM) report elevated rates of suicidal ideation and attempts compared to their heterosexual peers. However, there is a paucity of research regarding suicidal ideation among MSM in Japan, where MSM continue to experience significant stigma and discrimination. Although Japan is a country of low HIV prevalence, the majority of newly reported HIV and AIDS infections are within the MSM population, placing a significant financial strain on national health system already struggling with an aging population. Furthermore, an estimated two-thirds of Japanese ..