Molecular analysis allows inference into HIV transmission among young men who have sex with men in the United States

Black/African-American MSM, who are more profoundly affected by HIV, were more likely to have potential HIV transmission partners who were of the same race/ethnicity and similar in age, suggesting that disparities in HIV infections are in large part not due to age-disassortative relationships. Concerted efforts to increase access to preexposure prophylaxis, quality HIV care and effective treatment are needed to interrupt transmission chains among young, black/African-American MSM.