Meth & Other Substance Use Trends Among MSM, 2008-2011
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376871613002263
Men who have sex with men (MSM) who use methamphetamine are in danger of becoming infected with HIV and encounter other significant health concerns including dental problems, depression and neurological damage. Previous studies indicated that meth use among MSM peaked between 1999 and 2005, with rates sharply declining in 2006 and 2007. Investigators at Friends Research Institute and UCLA initiated a study, conducted between 2008 and 2011, to determine whether methamphetamine use was still a significant problem in this population.
Investigators found that meth use did increase from 2006-2007 levels, although it did not return to the peak rates found in the early 2000’s. Methamphetamine use in MSM is still significantly higher than the national average. MSM participating in this study were also found to have high rates alcohol and marijuana use, demonstrating the continued need for interventions tailored to this specific population.
To read the full study, click here.