Drug Use and High-Risk Sexual Behaviors Among African-American Men Who Have Sex With Men and Men Who Have Sex With Women

In the current study, the researchers investigated covariates related to risky sexual behaviors among young African-American men at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The authors' analyses were based on data from 1,837 male freshmen enrolled at 34 HBCUs who took part in the 2001 HBCU Substance Use Survey. Covariates of risky sexual behavior assessed included non-use of condoms, sexual activity with multiple partners and a history of STD infection.

Compared to young black men who have sex with women, young black men who have sex with men were more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors. Early onset of sexual activity and alcohol or drug use before sex were independently associated with modestly higher odds of sexual risk behaviors.

"Services focusing on prevention of [STDs] should be provided to all male college students, regardless of the gender of their sexual partners," the authors concluded. "Such a general approach should also address drug and alcohol use before sexual activity."

Back to other news for August 2009