"On the down low." How does this "hip and happening" term relate to HIV? And what does the term have to do with African American men? More and more the HIV community as incorporated the term into their vocabulary. What does on the "down low" mean in the HIV world and how does it related to HIV and African American men?
The most generic definition of the term down low, or DL as it is sometimes referred to, is the following
- "to keep information or an activity private"
The term is often used to describe the behavior of men who have sex with other men but do not identify openly as being gay or bisexual. These men may refer to themselves as "being on the down low"; "on the DL"; or "on the low low".
The term has most often been associated with African American men. Although the term originated in the African American community, the behaviors associated with the term are not new and not specific to black men who have sex with men.
HIV/AIDS Among African Americans
HIV Incidence Among Gay Black Men
Its importance when talking about safer sex and HIV prevention is simple. The practice of bisexual men on the "down low" having unprotected sex with their female partner as well as their male partner is partially to blame for the rise in heterosexual transmission of HIV, especially in women of color. Without disclosure of sexual practices and without the use of safer sex practices, this trend is certain to continue.
Using a Condom - The Right Way
While there has been no data to confirm HIV risk behavior associated with these men, what is clear is that women, men, and children of minority races and ethnicities are, disproportionately affected by HIV and AIDS. To reverse this trend, persons need to protect themselves and others from getting or transmitting HIV. Being on the "down low" makes that much more difficult.
