Methamphetamine Use and Infectious Disease-Related Behaviors in Men Who Have Sex With Men: Implications for Interventions

The authors' goal for this study was to "review the current evidence regarding the prevalence of methamphetamine use among men who have sex with men (MSM) and to evaluate the factors that contribute to methamphetamine use and potential for sexual transmission of HIV and other infectious diseases."

Databased reports were used to address the epidemiology of methamphetamine use in MSM, methamphetamine use and risk behaviors for STDs, and interventions.

The study's findings showed that methamphetamine use is "highly prevalent" among MSM. Strong associations between the drug's use and HIV-related sexual transmission behaviors are noted across studies of MSM and correspond to increased incidence for HIV and syphilis compared to MSM who do not use methamphetamine. Behavioral treatments produce sustained reductions in methamphetamine use and accompanying sexual risk behaviors among methamphetamine-dependent MSM.

"Brief screening of methamphetamine use for MSM who seek physical, mental health, and substance abuse services is recommended," the authors concluded. "Behavioral interventions that address methamphetamine use may range from brief interventions to intensive out-patient treatments."

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