Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Age at Sexual Debut among Men Who Sex with Men in Shenzhen, China

Background: Early sexual debut (ESD) is considered an important public health issue. Previous studies have indicated age at sexual debut is affected by multiple factors, including adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). However, studies specifically exploring the relationship between ACEs and age at sexual debut among men who have sex with men (MSM) are lacking. This study aims to explore the relationship between ACEs and age at sexual debut among MSM in China. Methods From March 2013 to August 2015, MSM who came to the Sexually Transmitted Diseases Clinic of Shenzhen Center for Chronic Disease Control were recruited in our study. Using an anonymous questionnaire, we collected information about their social-demographics, age at sexual debut and ACEs. Logistic regression and linear regression were performed to acquire the estimates for the relationships between ACEs and early sexual debut (ESD). Results A total of 546 MSM were recruited. The median age at MSM sexual debut was 20.0 years, and 40.5% of the MSM were exposed to at least one ACEs. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that MSM with a history of ACEs was approximately twice (aOR=2.15; 95%CI:1.32-3.48) as likely to report a history of ESD and tended to experience sexual debut approximately one year (β:-1.10; 95%CI: -1.70,-0.50) earlier than those without. Conclusions ACEs are associated with ESD, suggesting that sexual health education and public health programs aimed at delaying early sexual debut among young Chinese MSM should consider addressing ACEs.