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Huang P, Du SCS, Ku SWW, Li CW, Bourne A, Strong C. An object-oriented analysis of social apps, syringes and ARTs within gay Taiwanese men's chemsex practices. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2024; 26:497-512. [PMID: 37435820 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2023.2228859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
Critical drug studies explore the discursive and material dimensions of sexualised drug use to overcome individualised and often pathologising notions such as risk, safety, responsibility and pleasure. This article uses an object-oriented approach-following the use and flow of social apps, syringes and antiretroviral therapy (ART)-to analyse gay and bisexual Taiwanese men's drug practices. Interview data from fourteen men are used to articulate how objects were brought into gay and bisexual men's chemsex repertoire in ways that shaped individuals' safe-sex communication, intimacy maintenance and stigma negotiation. An object-oriented approach scrutinises risk, pleasure and identities in assemblages of the human and nonhuman, and can help identify new opportunities for implementing health promotion interventions and policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poyao Huang
- Institute of Health Behaviors and Community Sciences and Master of Public Health Program, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Stephane Wen-Wei Ku
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Taipei City Hospital Renai Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Wen Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Adam Bourne
- Australian Research Centre in Sex Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Carol Strong
- Department of Public Health, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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2
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Blair CS, Gandhi M, Shoptaw S, Blades C, Clark JL. Contingency Management for Integrated Harm Reduction Among Men Who Have Sex with Men Who Use Methamphetamine in Los Angeles: A Pilot Assessment. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:1962-1971. [PMID: 36414775 PMCID: PMC10152513 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03929-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (MA) use is associated with HIV transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM) and lapses in medication adherence. Contingency Management (CM) is effective in reducing MA use, but studies of CM to support adherence to HIV prevention or treatment are limited. We conducted a pilot trial of a CM intervention to reduce MA use and improve PrEP/ART adherence among MSM prescribed a tenofovir (TFV)-based regimen for HIV prevention or treatment. Participants were randomly assigned to receive escalating incentives for either MA abstinence or TFV adherence (based on point-of-care urine testing), and to a monitoring schedule of either 2 or 3 visits/week for 4 weeks. 19 MSM were randomized to either CM for MA use or CM for PrEP/ART adherence (median age: 38; IQR: 28-46) and 15 were living with HIV. Participants attended 95.7% (67/70) of scheduled visits in the 2x/week arm and 74.8% (74/99) in the 3x/week arm. TFV adherence was higher among participants in the TFV adherence arm with 93.5% (n = 72/77) of urine samples positive for TFV, compared to 76.6% (n = 49/64) in the MA abstinence arm (p = 0.007). Participants in the MA abstinence arm had more urine samples negative for MA metabolites (20.3%, n = 13/64) than those receiving CM for TFV adherence (6.5%, n = 5/77; p = 0.021). A CM model for MA abstinence and PrEP/ART adherence using twice-weekly visits and urine testing for MA and TFV for MSM who use MA is feasible and potentially effective as an integrated harm reduction strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheríe S Blair
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 LeConte Avenue, CHS 52-215, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Monica Gandhi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christopher Blades
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jesse L Clark
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 LeConte Avenue, CHS 52-215, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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3
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Gaudette M, Hesse CL, Kia H, Chanady T, Carson A, Knight R, Ferlatte O. "A Double-Edged Sword": Health Professionals' Perspectives on the Health and Social Impacts of Gay Dating Apps on Young Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Queer Men. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023; 60:656-667. [PMID: 36519734 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2022.2153786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Gay dating apps (GDAs) play a central role in partner-seeking for many men. The purpose of the present study was to explore health professionals' perceptions of the effects of GDAs on young gay, bisexual, trans and queer men (YGBTQM). Because health professionals have access to privileged information about YGBTQM's experiences with GDAs, they can provide unique insights about their impacts on YGBTQM health and well-being. This study drew on 28 in-depth semi-structured qualitative interviews with health professionals who provide services to YGBTQM in British Columbia, Canada. Using thematic content analysis, we identified three themes showing participants' conflicting perceptions of GDAs' impacts on YGBTQM: (1) the accessibility of sex on GDAs as either transactional or pleasurable; (2) the building of community and increased safety, which at times corresponds with increased exposure to rejection and discrimination; and (3) a perceived escalation in sexual and drug-related risk-taking in conjunction with the opportunity for education, prevention and intervention. In response to the often polarizing literature on GDAs, this study is among the first to contribute empirical evidence into the perceptions of health professionals working with YGBTQM who use GDAs, while simultaneously providing actionable insights and strategies to help identify potential harms and maximize benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxim Gaudette
- Département de Medecine Sociale et préventive, École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal
| | - Cassandra L Hesse
- Providence Health Care, British Columbia Centre on Substance Use
- Department of Education, University of British Columbia
| | - Hannah Kia
- School of Social Work, University of British Columbia
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbias
| | - Tara Chanady
- Département de Medecine Sociale et préventive, École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal
| | - Anna Carson
- Providence Health Care, British Columbia Centre on Substance Use
| | - Rod Knight
- Providence Health Care, British Columbia Centre on Substance Use
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbias
| | - Olivier Ferlatte
- Département de Medecine Sociale et préventive, École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal
- Providence Health Care, British Columbia Centre on Substance Use
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Blair CS, Fulcher JA, Cho GD, Gorbach PM, Shoptaw S, Clark JL. Brief Report: Impact of Methamphetamine Use and Rectal STIs on Systemic and Rectal Mucosal Inflammation. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 92:281-285. [PMID: 36515912 PMCID: PMC9974870 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methamphetamine (MA) use is associated with sexual risk behavior as well as systemic and mucosal inflammation, suggesting parallel biological and behavioral mechanisms of HIV transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM) who use MA. Data evaluating the combined biological effects of MA use with concomitant rectal gonococcal and/or chlamydial (GC/CT) infection on inflammation are limited. SETTING Secondary analysis of stored rectal and plasma specimens from 100 MSM participating in an NIDA-funded longitudinal cohort in Los Angeles, CA. METHODS This cross-sectional analysis evaluated systemic and rectal inflammatory markers under 2 conditions: (1) recent MA use (by urine drug screen) and (2) rectal GC/CT infection. We evaluated 50 participants with recent MA use (25 with and 25 without rectal GC/CT) and 50 MSM without MA use (25 with and 25 without rectal GC/CT). Log-transformed plasma and rectal immune markers were regressed on MA exposure and rectal GC/CT, controlling for HIV status and age. RESULTS Median age was 32 (range 19-45) years, and 58% of participants were living with HIV. Plasma tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-1ß, and rectal IL-6 were associated with rectal GC/CT and MA use, independent of HIV status. Higher levels of rectal TNF-α, IL-1ß, and IL-17a were associated with rectal GC/CT. CONCLUSIONS Systemic and rectal inflammation was positively associated with rectal GC/CT and MA use. Condomless sex in the setting of GC/CT- and MA-induced immune activation may provide a basis for synergistic biobehavioral mechanisms that promote HIV/STI transmission among MSM who use MA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheríe S Blair
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Jennifer A Fulcher
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Grace D Cho
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Pamina M Gorbach
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Steve Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA; and
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Jesse L Clark
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA; and
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Hart TA, Noor SW, Tavangar F, Berlin GW, Skakoon-Sparling S, Tan DHS, Lambert G, Grace D, Jollimore J, Sang JM, Kirschbaum AL, Kanji R, Apelian H, Cox J, Moore DM, Lachowsky N. Crystal methamphetamine use and bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among gay, bisexual and other sexual minority men in Canada. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 242:109718. [PMID: 36516548 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE While crystal methamphetamine use by gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) is associated with increased risk for sexually transmitted infection (STI) transmission, less is understood about the causal pathways between crystal methamphetamine use and STIs. We examined whether the association between greater crystal methamphetamine risk and prevalent bacterial STI diagnosis among GBM was mediated by two types of attitudinal variables: attitudes toward condoms, and sexual escape motives, defined as the use of substances to escape self-awareness during sex, and by sexual behaviors. METHODS We used computer-assisted self-interview questionnaires from 2449 sexually active GBM (18% living with HIV; median age = 33, interquartile range, 27-45) recruited via respondent-driven sampling in Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal, Canada. Using the baseline data from the Engage cohort study, we fit a series of structural mediation models of the associations between greater crystal methamphetamine risk and bacterial STI (syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia) diagnosis. We estimated indirect paths from greater crystal methamphetamine risk, attitudes toward condoms, sexual escape motives, and sexual risk behaviors, adjusting for self-reported demographic variables. RESULTS In the mediated model, the direct association between greater crystal methamphetamine risk and bacterial STI diagnosis was non-significant; however, five indirect paths were significant. Greater crystal methamphetamine risk was associated with bacterial STIs via condom use attitudes and escape motives, which in turn were associated with number of male anal sex partners, condomless anal sex, and oral sex. DISCUSSION Public health and counselling interventions for GBM who use crystal methamphetamine and who are at higher risk for STIs should target evidence-based causal paths that consider sexual attitudes and sexual practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor A Hart
- Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada; University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Syed W Noor
- Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada; Louisiana State University Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Farideh Tavangar
- Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael's Hospital, Canada
| | | | | | - Darrell H S Tan
- Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael's Hospital, Canada; Unity Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gilles Lambert
- Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Montréal, QC, Canada; Direction régionale de santé publique - Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Jody Jollimore
- Community-Based Research Centre for Gay Men's Health, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jordan M Sang
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Rahim Kanji
- Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Joseph Cox
- Direction régionale de santé publique - Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - David M Moore
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nathan Lachowsky
- University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada; Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, Victoria, BC, Canada
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Understanding the Service Needs and Preferences of Men Who Have Sex with Men Who Use Crystal Methamphetamine in British Columbia, Canada: a Qualitative Study. Int J Ment Health Addict 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00848-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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7
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Post-Exposure Prophylaxis and Methamphetamine Use among Young Sexual Minority Men: The P18 Cohort Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19020712. [PMID: 35055534 PMCID: PMC8775683 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19020712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Methamphetamine use is associated with increased risk of HIV infection among young sexual minority men (SMM). Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is an effective strategy for individuals who are exposed to HIV, but there is limited research about PEP use among young SMM and its relationship with methamphetamine use. This study analyzes the association between ever PEP use and recent methamphetamine use among young SMM in New York City, using cross-sectional data from the P18 Cohort Study (n = 429). Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the association between methamphetamine use and ever PEP use. Compared with those who had not used methamphetamine in the last 6 months, young SMM who did use methamphetamine were significantly more likely to have ever used PEP (AOR = 6.07, 95% CI: 2.10–16.86). Young SMM who had ever used PrEP had 16 times higher odds of ever using PEP (AOR = 16, 95% CI: 7.41–35.95). Those who completed bachelor’s degrees were 61% less likely to have ever used PEP (AOR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.17–0.88). These data suggest that methamphetamine use could increase the risk of HIV infection, highlighting the critical need to target interventions for young SMM who use methamphetamine and are more likely to engage in unprotected intercourse.
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8
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Industrial Drug Use Between Young Couples to Improve the Quality of Sex. ADDICTIVE DISORDERS & THEIR TREATMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/adt.0000000000000285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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9
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Factors Causing the Tendency to Abuse Addictive Substances in Adolescent Girls. ADDICTIVE DISORDERS & THEIR TREATMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/adt.0000000000000284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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10
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Rivera AV, Harriman G, Carrillo SA, Braunstein SL. Trends in Methamphetamine Use Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in New York City, 2004-2017. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:1210-1218. [PMID: 33185774 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03097-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (meth) use among men who have sex with men (MSM) has been documented to be associated with HIV transmission among those who are HIV-negative and worsening HIV outcomes among those who are HIV-positive. Recent media reports have suggested recent increases in meth use in New York City (NYC), particularly among Hispanic/Latino and Black MSM. Using serial cross-sectional data from 2004 to 2017, we aim to describe trends in meth use and describe racial/ethnic patterns among MSM in NYC. Overall, we observed a decrease in meth use among MSM from 2004 to 2011 and an increase from 2011 to 2017. When stratified by race/ethnicity, use among White MSM decreased. Beginning in 2008, use among both Hispanic/Latino and Black MSM increased over time. These data provide more evidence that meth use may be increasing in Hispanic/Latino and Black MSM. Culturally-tailored and status-neutral interventions should be explored.
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Treloar C, Hopwood M, Drysdale K, Lea T, Holt M, Dowsett GW, Aggleton P, Bryant J. Stigma as understood by key informants: A social ecological approach to gay and bisexual men's use of crystal methamphetamine for sex. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 94:103229. [PMID: 33774423 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This paper explores the perceptions of 35 key informants (KIs) in a range of relevant health and community sectors regarding the stigmatisation of GBM's crystal methamphetamine use and sexual practice with view to informing stigma reduction efforts. A modified social ecological model was used to guide analysis and interpretation. At the individual level, KI participants indicated that crystal methamphetamine was used by some GBM to reduce the effects of internalised stigma. At the network level, KIs thought that some drugs and types of use could attract more stigma and that this could erode support from GBM networks for men who use crystal. KIs felt that few "mainstream" organisations could provide appropriate services for GBM who use crystal and furthermore, that there was significant work to "undo" misperceptions of the harms of crystal use. At the policy level, mass media anti-drug campaigns were seen to be a significant generator of stigma with irrelevant and patronising messages that lacked useful information. Efforts to reduce stigma about crystal methamphetamine use amongst GBM must address individual, network, organisation and policy issues and be underpinned by understandings of social power in relation to sex, sexuality, drug use, infectious status and sexual minorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
| | - Max Hopwood
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Kerryn Drysdale
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Toby Lea
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Martin Holt
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Gary W Dowsett
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, 215 Franklin Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Peter Aggleton
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Joanne Bryant
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
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12
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Reback CJ, Fletcher JB, Mata RP. A Theory-Based mHealth Intervention (Getting Off) for Methamphetamine-Using Men Who Have Sex With Men: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e22572. [PMID: 33616547 PMCID: PMC7939940 DOI: 10.2196/22572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Methamphetamine (meth) use among men who have sex with men (MSM) is associated with increased HIV prevalence and transmission and substandard advancement along the HIV prevention and care continuum. Given the growth of mobile health (mHealth) technologies, it is no longer necessary to limit meth treatment options to physical, brick-and-mortar sites, and administration using generic, nontailored content. Objective In a 2-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT; N=300), we aim to evaluate the use of an mHealth intervention (Getting Off) to assess the impact and noninferiority of a cross-platform app (developed from a manualized meth treatment intervention) to help MSM reduce meth use and HIV sexual risk behaviors and improve their advancement along the HIV prevention and care continuum (HIV testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake and persistence, and antiretroviral therapy uptake and adherence). Methods Participants will be randomized into 2 arms: arm A, with immediate access to the app (immediate delivery: n=150), or arm B, with delayed access to the app after a 30-day period (delayed delivery: n=150). Participants in both arms will use the same Getting Off app and will have 30 days to complete the 24 sessions. Participants will be assessed at the 1-, 2- (delayed delivery arm only), 3-, 6-, and 9-month timepoints to determine observed treatment effects and will be compared with a historical matched sample of participants (n=~600) who received the brick-and-mortar group-based Getting Off intervention. Results Recruitment began in January 2019 for phase 1, the formative phase. In January and February 2019, 4 focus groups (N=36) were formed to provide input on the adaptation of the group-based manual intervention to a mobile app. Data collection for phase 2, the RCT, is expected to be completed in January 2023. The final results are anticipated in April 2023. Conclusions By creating a culturally responsive mobile app, Getting Off aims to reduce meth use and improve sexual health outcomes among meth-using MSM. The Getting Off app could have significant public health impact by greatly expanding access to effective, affordable, private, culturally competent, and highly scalable meth treatment for MSM. Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03884946; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03884946 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/22572
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathy J Reback
- Friends Research Institution, Inc, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,UCLA Center for HIV Identification, Prevention, and Treatment Services, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jesse B Fletcher
- Friends Research Institution, Inc, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Raymond P Mata
- Friends Research Institution, Inc, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Ahuja N, Schmidt M, Dillon PJ, Alexander AC, Kedia S. Online Narratives of Methamphetamine Use and Risky Sexual Behavior: Can Shame-Free Guilt Aid in Recovery? ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:323-332. [PMID: 32671499 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01777-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (meth) use is a recurring public health challenge in the U.S. In 2016, approximately 1.6 million Americans reported using meth. Meth use is associated with a number of adverse outcomes, including those associated with users' sexual health. In particular, meth use is linked to an increased risk for sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies. While studies have examined associations between substance use of various types-including meth use, and shame and guilt-few studies have examined relationships among substance use, sexual risk behaviors, and shame and guilt. No qualitative studies, to our knowledge, have studied all three of these phenomena in a sample of meth users. The present qualitative study explored the sexual risk behaviors and associated feelings of shame and guilt in relation to meth use. It draws from anonymous letters and stories (N = 202) posted to an online discussion forum by meth users and their family members. A grounded theory analysis of these narratives identified four primary themes pertaining to meth use and sexual behaviors: (1) feeling heightened sexual arousal and stimulation on meth, (2) experiencing sexual dissatisfaction on meth, (3) responding to sexual arousal and dissatisfaction, and (4) feeling ashamed and/or guilty. Ultimately, the present findings indicate that feelings of shame and guilt may arise more from the consequences of sexual risk behaviors stemming from meth use rather than meth use itself. The emotional toll of meth-induced sexual risk behaviors, particularly shame and guilt over the loss of meaningful relationships and self-respect due to multiple sexual partners, may provide an important opportunity for interventionists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikhil Ahuja
- Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Memphis, 3825 Desoto Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38152, USA
| | - Michael Schmidt
- Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Memphis, 3825 Desoto Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38152, USA
| | - Patrick J Dillon
- School of Communication Studies, Kent State University at Stark, North Canton, OH, USA
| | - Adam C Alexander
- The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Satish Kedia
- Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Memphis, 3825 Desoto Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38152, USA.
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Cheng B, Sang JM, Cui Z, Bacani N, Armstrong HL, Zhu J, Elefante J, Olarewaju G, Card KG, Blackwell E, Lachowsky NJ, Hogg RS, Roth EA, Moore DM. Factors Associated with Cessation or Reduction of Methamphetamine Use among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men (gbMSM) in Vancouver Canada. Subst Use Misuse 2020; 55:1692-1701. [PMID: 32406780 PMCID: PMC7527035 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2020.1756854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: Methamphetamine (MA) use among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM) is a pervasive issue, associated with detrimental health outcomes. We identified factors associated with discontinuation or reduction in MA among a subset of gbMSM reporting frequent (at least weekly) use, with a specific focus on symptoms of anxiety and depression. Methods: We recruited sexually-active gbMSM aged ≥16 years in Vancouver, Canada into a prospective-cohort study using respondent-driven sampling. Participants completed study visits once every six months. We used generalized linear mixed models to identify factors associated with reductions in MA use following a visit where participants previously reported using MA at least weekly. Results: Of 584 cohort participants with at least one follow-up visit, 67 (11.5%) reported frequent MA use at baseline or in follow-up visits. Of these, 46 (68.7%) had at least one subsequent study visit where they transitioned to less frequent (monthly or less) or no MA use. In multivariable models, reduced MA use was less likely for those who spent >50% of social time with other gbMSM (aRR = 0.49, 95%CI:0.28-0.85), gave or received drugs in exchange for sex (aRR = 0.34, 95%CI:0.13-0.87), injected drugs (aRR = 0.35, 95%CI:0.18-0.68), or used gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) (aRR = 0.41, 95%CI:0.21-0.78). Symptoms of anxiety or depression were not associated with reductions in MA use. Conclusions: Social connection and drug-related factors surrounding MA use were associated with reductions, but anxiety and depressive symptomatology were not. Incorporating socialization and polysubstance-related components with MA reduction may help in developing efficacious interventions toward reducing MA use for gbMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke Cheng
- Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jordan M Sang
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Zishan Cui
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nicanor Bacani
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Julia Zhu
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Julius Elefante
- St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gbolahan Olarewaju
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kiffer G Card
- University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.,Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | | | - Nathan J Lachowsky
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.,Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Robert S Hogg
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Eric A Roth
- University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - David M Moore
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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15
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O'Halloran C, Rice B, White E, Desai M, Dunn DT, McCormack S, Sullivan AK, White D, McOwan A, Gafos M. Chemsex is not a barrier to self-reported daily PrEP adherence among PROUD study participants. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 74:246-254. [PMID: 31739177 PMCID: PMC6913514 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a novel HIV prevention method whereby HIV-negative individuals take the drugs tenofovir and emtricitabine to prevent HIV acquisition. Optimal adherence is critical for PrEP efficacy. Chemsex describes sexual activity under the influence of psychoactive drugs, in the UK typically; crystal methamphetamine, gamma-hydroxybutyrate(GHB) and/or mephedrone. Chemsex drug use has been associated with increased HIV transmission risk among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBM) and poor ART adherence among people living with HIV. This study assessed whether self-reported chemsex events affected self-reported daily PrEP adherence among PROUD study participants. METHODS The PROUD study was an open-label, randomised controlled trial, conducted in thirteen English sexual health clinics, assessing effectiveness of TruvadaⓇ-PrEP among 544 HIV-negative GBM. The study reported an 86% risk-reduction of HIV from daily PrEP. Participants were asked about chemsex engagement at follow-up visits. Monthly self-reports of missed PrEP tablets were aggregated to assess adherence between visits. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were performed to test for associations between chemsex and reporting less than seven out of seven intended doses(<7/7ID) in the 7 days before and/or after last condomless anal intercourse(CAI). RESULTS 1479 follow-up visit forms and 2260 monthly adherence forms from 388 participants were included in the analyses, with 38.5% visit forms reporting chemsex since last visit and 29.9% follow-up periods reporting <7/7ID. No statistically significant associations were observed between reporting <7/7ID and chemsex (aOR=1.29 [95% CI 0.90-1.87], p = 0.168). Statistically significant associations were seen between reporting <7/7ID and participants perceiving that they would miss PrEP doses during the trial, Asian ethnicity, and reporting unemployment at baseline. CONCLUSIONS These analyses suggest PrEP remains a feasible and effective HIV prevention method for GBM engaging in chemsex, a practise which is prevalent in this group and has been associated with increased HIV transmission risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte O'Halloran
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, 61 Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5EQ, United Kingdom.
| | - Brian Rice
- LSHTM, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, United Kingdom.
| | - Ellen White
- Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Unit, 90 High Holborn, London WC1V 6LJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Monica Desai
- University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom.
| | - David T Dunn
- Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Unit, 90 High Holborn, London WC1V 6LJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Sheena McCormack
- Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Unit, 90 High Holborn, London WC1V 6LJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Ann K Sullivan
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, 369 Fulham Road, London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom.
| | - David White
- Department of Infection, Hawthorn house, Heartlands Hospital, University of Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham B9 5SS, United Kingdom.
| | - Alan McOwan
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, 56 Dean Street, London W1D 6AE, United Kingdom.
| | - Mitzy Gafos
- LSHTM, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, United Kingdom.
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16
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Storholm ED, Huang W, Siconolfi DE, Pollack LM, Carrico AW, Vincent W, Rebchook GM, Huebner DM, Wagner GJ, Kegeles SM. Sources of Resilience as Mediators of the Effect of Minority Stress on Stimulant Use and Sexual Risk Behavior Among Young Black Men who have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:3384-3395. [PMID: 31273490 PMCID: PMC6919270 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02572-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The greatest proportion of new HIV infections among men who have sex with men (MSM) is occurring among young Black MSM (YBMSM) ages 13-24. Consequently, research is needed to understand the psychosocial pathways that influence HIV risk and resilience in YBMSM. Minority Stress Theory proposes that the stigma, prejudice, and discrimination facing sexual and racial minorities are chronic stressors that lead to increased engagement in risk behaviors. The present study examined whether minority stress is associated with stimulant use and sexual risk behaviors by depleting psychosocial resilience. We recruited 1817 YBMSM, ages 18-29, from multiple venues in two major cities in Texas for participation in a brief survey. Results from structural equation modeling indicated that decreased resilience partially mediated the association of minority stress with sexual risk behavior. Resilience was also negatively associated with stimulant use. Interventions focused on cultivating psychosocial resilience could mitigate the deleterious consequences of minority stress and reduce stimulant use in YBMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik D Storholm
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Office 5227, Santa Monica, CA, 90407, USA.
| | - Wenjing Huang
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Office 5227, Santa Monica, CA, 90407, USA
| | - Daniel E Siconolfi
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Office 5227, Santa Monica, CA, 90407, USA
| | - Lance M Pollack
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | | | - Wilson Vincent
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Gregory M Rebchook
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - David M Huebner
- School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Glenn J Wagner
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Office 5227, Santa Monica, CA, 90407, USA
| | - Susan M Kegeles
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
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17
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Pleasure and HIV biomedical discourse: The structuring of sexual and drug-related risks for gay and bisexual men who Party-n-Play. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 74:181-190. [PMID: 31627160 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Party-n-Play (PNP) is a social practice that refers to sex that occurs under the influence of drugs. This study critically examined the risk and pleasure discourses of gay and bisexual men who PNP to explore how epistemic shifts associated with advancements in HIV biomedical sciences influence gay and bisexual men's perceptions of HIV risks and their sexual and drug-related practices. This study also aims to provide a more nuanced understanding of how sexual and drug-related risk practices of gay and bisexual men are entangled with their search for pleasure. The study was framed within poststructural Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) methodology. In-depth one-hour interviews were conducted with 44 self-identified gay, bisexual, queer, or Two-Spirit men, who lived in Toronto, and who reported using drugs before or during sex with another man. The findings from this study demonstrated the capacity of biomedical discourses to affect respondents' HIV risk perceptions and practices. The transition from condom-centered prevention to today's context where new highly effective biomedical tools for HIV prevention are available created possibilities for greater intimacy, increased pleasure, and less anxiety about HIV tranmission, while challenging many years of preventive socialization among gay and bisexual men. However, this new context also rekindled deep-seated fears about HIV risk and viral load verifiability, reinforced unequal forms of biomedical self-governance and citizenship, and reproduced practices of biopolitics. While discourses on risk and pleasure were interwoven within complex PNP assemblages, the notion of pleasure was mobilized as a discursive tactic of self-control, and the division between normative and non-normative pleasures highlighted the consequence of biopolitical forces governing the production of discourses on sex and drugs. Future HIV social science research needs to attend to the fluid nature of the discursive environments of HIV prevention science, and consider how both the material context of PNP and its social/discursive elements operate together.
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18
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Race K, Lea T, Murphy D, Pienaar K. The future of drugs: recreational drug use and sexual health among gay and other men who have sex with men. Sex Health 2019; 14:42-50. [PMID: 27712616 DOI: 10.1071/sh16080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
There are complex historical connections between sexual minoritisation and desires to chemically alter bodily experience. For gay men, drug and alcohol use can be a creative or experimental response to social marginalisation - and not necessarily a problematic one in every instance. Numerous studies have found that infection with HIV and other sexually transmissible infections (STIs) is more likely among gay and men who have sex with men (MSM) who use recreational drugs than those who do not, but the causal nature of these relations is uncertain. Sexualised drug use is associated with a range of other problems, including dependence, mental health issues, accident and overdose. A growing body of work in the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) field demonstrates the action of drugs and their purported effects to be a product of their relations with various other actors, contexts and practices. Given these contingencies, it is impossible to predict the future of drugs or their effect on the sexual health of gay and MSM with any degree of certainty. This article outlines some of the conditions most likely to mediate such futures in the medium term. Public funding for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer drug issues should not remain restricted to questions of HIV prevention and sexual health. It should be expanded to equip sexual health and AOD service providers with the cultural and sexual literacy to mitigate stigma and allow them to respond constructively to drug problems among sexual and gender minorities as a matter of priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kane Race
- Gender & Cultural Studies, University of Sydney, SOPHI A14, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Toby Lea
- Centre for Social Research in Health, The University of New South Wales, John Goodsell Building, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Dean Murphy
- Centre for Social Research in Health, The University of New South Wales, John Goodsell Building, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Kiran Pienaar
- National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University, Suite 6, 19-35 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, Vic. 3065, Australia
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19
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Ecological momentary assessments for self-monitoring and counseling to optimize methamphetamine treatment and sexual risk reduction outcomes among gay and bisexual men. J Subst Abuse Treat 2018; 92:17-26. [PMID: 30032940 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2018.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
This pilot study evaluated the use of smartphone ecological momentary assessments (EMA) for self-monitoring to optimize treatment outcomes among gay and bisexual men enrolled in an outpatient methamphetamine abuse treatment service program. Participants (N = 34) received EMA prompts five times daily to self-monitor their methamphetamine use, cravings, sexual risk behaviors, and associated triggers and affect throughout the 8-week treatment program. Participants were randomized into either a self-directed condition with access to a web-based EMA response visualization dashboard ("EMA + Dashboard"; n = 16); or, a counselor-supported condition incorporating weekly, 30-min, one-on-one counseling sessions to review and discuss the participant's self-monitoring data on the dashboard ("EMA + Dashboard + Counselor"; n = 18). Pilot participants were compared with historical controls (n = 102) as the reference group in multiple regression analyses to assess the impact of the two study conditions on the treatment service program outcomes. Study participants with weekly counseling (EMA + Dashboard + Counselor) exhibited significantly greater reductions in the number of condomless anal intercourse episodes than historical controls (IRR = 0.02, 95% CI [0.00, 0.30]), whereas the reduction was of similar magnitude as controls in the EMA + Dashboard self-directed condition (IRR = 0.23, 95% CI [0.02, 3.56]). Treatment effects were not significant for comparisons between the two study conditions and historical controls for self-reported methamphetamine use (EMA + Dashboard: IRR = 1.06, 95% CI [0.32, 3.49]; EMA + Dashboard+Counselor: IRR = 0.46, 95% CI [0.14, 1.49]), number of male partners (EMA + Dashboard: IRR = 1.02, 95% CI [0.39, 2.61]; EMA + Dashboard+Counselor: IRR = 0.54, 95% CI [0.20, 1.45]), and the likelihood of providing a urine sample that tested positive for methamphetamine metabolites (EMA + Dashboard: OR = 1.00, 95% CI [0.79, 1.25]; EMA + Dashboard + Counselor: OR = 0.93, 95% CI [0.74, 1.16]). The pilot study provides preliminary evidence that the treatment outcome for condomless anal intercourse can be improved through a combination of smartphone- and counselor-assisted self-monitoring.
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20
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Pakianathan M, Whittaker W, Lee MJ, Avery J, Green S, Nathan B, Hegazi A. Chemsex and new HIV diagnosis in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men attending sexual health clinics. HIV Med 2018; 19:485-490. [PMID: 29790254 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.12629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to analyse associations between chemsex and new HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnoses among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) accessing sexual health clinics. METHODS A retrospective case note review was carried out for all GBMSM attending two London sexual health clinics between 1 June 2014 and 31 July 2015. RESULTS Chemsex status was documented for 1734 of 1840 patients. Overall, 27.1% (n = 463) disclosed current recreational drug use, of whom 286 (16.5%) disclosed chemsex participation and 74 of 409 (18.1%) injected drugs. GBMSM who were already HIV positive were more likely to disclose chemsex participation [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.55; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.89-3.44; P < 0.001]. Those disclosing chemsex participation had higher odds of being newly diagnosed with HIV infection (AOR 5.06; 95% CI 2.56-10.02; P < 0.001), acute bacterial STIs (AOR 3.94; 95% CI 3.00-5.17; P < 0.001), rectal STIs (AOR 4.45; 95% CI 3.37-6.06; P < 0.001) and hepatitis C (AOR 9.16; 95% CI 2.31-36.27; P = 0.002). HIV-negative chemsex participants were also more likely to have accessed post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV in the study period and to report sex with a discordant HIV- or hepatitis C virus-infected partner (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Chemsex disclosure in sexual health settings is associated with higher rates of STI diagnoses, including HIV infection and hepatitis C. GBMSM attending sexual health services should therefore be assessed for chemsex participation and disclosure should prompt health promotion, harm minimization and wellbeing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Pakianathan
- Wandsworth Integrated Sexual Health, The Courtyard Clinic, St George's University Hospital Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - W Whittaker
- Centre for Health Economics, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - M J Lee
- Wandsworth Integrated Sexual Health, The Courtyard Clinic, St George's University Hospital Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - J Avery
- Wandsworth Integrated Sexual Health, The Courtyard Clinic, St George's University Hospital Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - S Green
- Department of Sexual Health, The Wolverton Centre, Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - B Nathan
- Department of Sexual Health, The Wolverton Centre, Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - A Hegazi
- Wandsworth Integrated Sexual Health, The Courtyard Clinic, St George's University Hospital Foundation Trust, London, UK
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21
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Bryant J, Hopwood M, Dowsett GW, Aggleton P, Holt M, Lea T, Drysdale K, Treloar C. The rush to risk when interrogating the relationship between methamphetamine use and sexual practice among gay and bisexual men. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 55:242-248. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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22
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Desai M, Bourne A, Hope V, Halkitis PN. Sexualised drug use: LGTB communities and beyond. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 55:128-130. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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23
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Halkitis PN, Singer SN. Chemsex and mental health as part of syndemic in gay and bisexual men. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 55:180-182. [PMID: 29661572 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A commentary is provided on the study reported by Garrett Prestage and his colleagues, which examined the relations between mental health states, non-injection drug use and sexual risk behaviors in a cross-sectional sample of 3,017Australian gay and bisexual men. We provide a summary of the findings in relation to the extant literature on the interconnectedness of these behaviors and health states and interpret the findings in this regard, noting both strengths and limitations. We couch our commentary in a theory of syndemics for considering how these associations may manifest and for informing both research and practice. While the data from this investigation posit risk they also point to strength and suggest the application of a resilience framework for addressing the health needs of gay and bisexual men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perry N Halkitis
- Rutgers School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Center for Health, Identity, Behavior & Prevention Studies (CHIBPS), RWJ Medical School, Rutgers University, Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, Rutgers University, School of Public Affairs and Administration, Rutgers University, United States.
| | - Stuart N Singer
- Center for Health, Identity, Behavior & Prevention Studies (CHIBPS), United States
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24
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Ristuccia A, LoSchiavo C, Halkitis PN, Kapadia F. Sexualised drug use among sexual minority young adults in the United States: The P18 cohort study. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 55:207-214. [PMID: 29610012 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2017] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance use and condomless sexual behaviours are both well studied in sexual minority men, but few researchers have used event-level data collection to examine sexualised drug use in sexual and gender minority young adults. The aim of this study is to describe the co-occurrence of sex under the influence of substances and condomless sexual behaviours, using nuanced event-level data, in a racially/ethnically and socioeconomically diverse sample in New York City. METHODS Data from one wave of a cohort of sexual and gender minority young adults who were assigned male at birth (n = 500) were used to characterise co-occurrence of sex under the influence of drugs and condomless sexual behaviours (oral receptive, anal insertive, and anal receptive sex), in the last 30 days. Logistic regression models were constructed to assess associations between sex while high and condomless sexual behaviours, controlling for sociodemographic factors. RESULTS Preliminary analyses indicated significant associations between engaging in sex while high and condomless sexual behaviours. In unadjusted regression models, sexualised and non-sexualised drug use were both significantly associated with increased odds of condomless sexual behaviours. In adjusted models, sexualised drug use remained significantly associated with condomless anal insertive sex (AOR = 3.57) and condomless anal receptive sex (AOR = 4.98). Having multiple sexual partners was also significantly associated with greater odds of condomless sexual activity in all three adjusted models. CONCLUSION Multivariable analyses indicated that engaging in sex while high on any drug was associated with increased condomless sexual behaviour, but that sexualised drug use was associated with particularly elevated condomless anal sex. These findings provide insight for understanding the co-occurrence of substance use and condomless sex, and suggest a need for HIV/STI risk reduction strategies that address the role of sexualised drug use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Ristuccia
- Center for Health, Identity, Behavior and Prevention Studies, 665 Broadway #800, New York, NY 10012, USA.
| | - Caleb LoSchiavo
- Center for Health, Identity, Behavior and Prevention Studies, 665 Broadway #800, New York, NY 10012, USA; Department of Biostatistics and Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, 684 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA.
| | - Perry N Halkitis
- Center for Health, Identity, Behavior and Prevention Studies, 665 Broadway #800, New York, NY 10012, USA; Department of Biostatistics and Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, 684 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, Rutgers University, 152 Frelinghuysen Rd, Piscataway Township, NJ 08854, USA; Robert Wood Johnson School of Medicine, Rutgers University, 675 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway Township, NJ 08854, USA; School of Public Affairs and Administration, Rutgers University, 111 Washington Street, Newark, NJ 07102, USA.
| | - Farzana Kapadia
- Center for Health, Identity, Behavior and Prevention Studies, 665 Broadway #800, New York, NY 10012, USA; Department of Epidemiology, College of Global Public Health, New York University, 715 Broadway, New York, NY 10003, USA; Department of Population Health, School of Medicine, New York University, 227 East 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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25
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Lea T, Kolstee J, Lambert S, Ness R, Hannan S, Holt M. Methamphetamine treatment outcomes among gay men attending a LGBTI-specific treatment service in Sydney, Australia. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172560. [PMID: 28207902 PMCID: PMC5313217 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Gay and bisexual men (GBM) report higher rates of methamphetamine use compared to heterosexual men, and thus have a heightened risk of developing problems from their use. We examined treatment outcomes among GBM clients receiving outpatient counseling at a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI)-specific, harm reduction treatment service in Sydney, Australia. GBM receiving treatment for methamphetamine use from ACON’s Substance Support Service between 2012–15 (n = 101) were interviewed at treatment commencement, and after 4 sessions (n = 60; follow-up 1) and 8 sessions (n = 32; follow-up 2). At each interview, clients completed measures of methamphetamine use and dependence, other substance use, injecting risk practices, psychological distress and quality of life. The median age of participants was 41 years and 56.4% identified as HIV-positive. Participants attended a median of 5 sessions and attended treatment for a median of 112 days. There was a significant reduction in the median days of methamphetamine use in the previous 4 weeks between baseline (4 days), follow-up 1 (2 days) and follow-up 2 (2 days; p = .001). There was a significant reduction in the proportion of participants reporting methamphetamine dependence between baseline (92.1%), follow-up 1 (78.3%) and follow-up 2 (71.9%, p < .001). There were also significant reductions in psychological distress (p < .001), and significant improvements in quality of life (p < .001). Clients showed reductions in methamphetamine use and improved psychosocial functioning over time, demonstrating the potential effectiveness of a LGBTI-specific treatment service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toby Lea
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | - Ross Ness
- ACON, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Martin Holt
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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26
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Reback CJ, Fletcher JB. Outcomes from a Homegrown HIV Prevention Program for Extremely High-risk, Substance-using Men who have Sex with Men with Multiple Health Disparities. JOURNAL OF GAY & LESBIAN SOCIAL SERVICES 2017; 29:167-181. [PMID: 30976151 PMCID: PMC6456257 DOI: 10.1080/10538720.2017.1296394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
From February 2010 through December 2014, 585 substance-using MSM were enrolled into a "homegrown" risk reduction intervention. Participants evidenced significant iterative factor reductions in the odds of substance use including alcohol (AOR=0.79) and marijuana (AOR=0.78; both p≤0.05) and marginally significant reductions in the odds of methamphetamine use (AOR=0.83; p≤0.07). Participants also evidenced significant reductions in sexual risks including the odds of reporting drug/alcohol use before or during sex (AOR=0.80) and of condomless anal intercourse (AOR=0.72; all significant at p≤0.05). Results demonstrate that the homegrown intervention was effective at reducing HIV risk behaviors among high-risk MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathy J. Reback
- Friends Research Institute, Inc., Los Angeles, California, USA
- Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Methamphetamine use among gay and bisexual men in Australia: Trends in recent and regular use from the Gay Community Periodic Surveys. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2016; 29:66-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2016.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Revised: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To summarize the recent literature (1st January 2014-1st February 2015) on stimulant treatment programme evaluations, and highlight key areas for future programme development. RECENT FINDINGS Advances have been made in addressing both sexual risks and stimulant use among gay and bisexual men in the United States, and in adapting evidence-based resource-intense interventions to real-world settings. Programme outcome measures increasingly include changes in substance use as well as health and wellbeing indicators and measures of risk. SUMMARY Future programme directions include: expansion of the psychosocial repertoire to include narrative and mindfulness-based therapies; web-based programme delivery; sex-sensitive programming to attract and retain women; comprehensive programming to address coexisting mental and physical illness and polysubstance use (including tobacco smoking); and improving accessibility to promote early intervention. Comparability of evaluation data can be improved by developing standardized tools particularly for measuring change in sexual-risk behavior. The use of new statistical techniques can address the lack of comparison populations.
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