Los Angeles Times Examines "Increasing Correlation" Between Crystal Meth Use, HIV Spread Among MSM

The Los Angeles Times on Wednesday examined the "increasing correlation" between crystal methamphetamine use and the spread of HIV among men who have sex with men. Health officials have become alarmed that the drug's ability to "heighten arousal and erase inhibitions" has led many MSM to participate in sexual behavior that increases the possibility of HIV and syphilis transmission, according to the Times. A recent CDC study based on San Francisco data showed that the use of both crystal meth and erectile dysfunction drugs, such as Viagra, have led to a "marked" increase in risky sexual behavior among MSM, the Times reports. The Internet also has made it easier for many MSM to meet sexual partners and acquire drugs, and the use of erectile dysfunction drugs has allowed sexual encounters to "last for hours and even days," according to the Times (Richardson/Romney, Los Angeles Times, 1/19). The complete article is available online.

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