International Journal of Drug Policy
Volume 21, Issue 3 , Pages 244-246, May 2010

Methamphetamine use among gay men across the UK

  • Christopher P. Bonell

      Affiliations

    • Centre for Research on Drugs and Health Behaviour, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
    • Corresponding Author InformationCorresponding author. Tel.: +44 020 7927 2145; fax: +44 020 7580 4524.
    • ,
  • Ford C.I. Hickson

      Affiliations

    • Sigma Research, University of Portsmouth, 77a Tradescant Road, London SW8 1XJ, United Kingdom
    • ,
  • Peter Weatherburn

      Affiliations

    • Sigma Research, University of Portsmouth, 77a Tradescant Road, London SW8 1XJ, United Kingdom
    • ,
  • David S. Reid

      Affiliations

    • Sigma Research, University of Portsmouth, 77a Tradescant Road, London SW8 1XJ, United Kingdom

Received 31 March 2009; received in revised form 23 July 2009; accepted 29 July 2009. published online 03 September 2009.

Abstract 

Background

Concerns about gay men's methamphetamine use reflect its physical and psychological harms, and association with sexual-risk behaviour and HIV infection. Existing research suggests gay men's use in the UK is low and may be largely confined to London.

Methods

Cross-sectional survey of convenience sample of UK gay men.

Results

Methamphetamine was used by a significant minority of gay men in London but also in other regions. Overall, use was highest among those men aged 30–49, HIV-positive and reporting sexual-risk behaviours.

Conclusion

Methamphetamine was used by a significant minority of gay men in and outside London. Targeted prevention and treatment services should be developed and evaluated.

Keywords: Homosexual, HIV, Methamphetamine, Street drugs, Sexual behaviour

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PII: S0955-3959(09)00109-1

doi:10.1016/j.drugpo.2009.07.002

International Journal of Drug Policy
Volume 21, Issue 3 , Pages 244-246, May 2010

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