ASSOCIATION OF METHAMPHETAMINE USE DURING SEX WITH RISKY SEXUAL BEHAVIORS AND HIV-INFECTION AMONG NON-INJECTION DRUG-USERS

Morbidity, mortality, and drug treatment data suggest that methampheta mine use is on the rise. Based on research findings of the sexual beha viors of methamphetamine-using injection drug users, we chose to exami ne the relationship between methamphetamine use during sex and risky s exual behaviors and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) seropositivity among clients of publicly funded HIV testing sites in California who r eported never injecting drugs. We found that among gay, bisexual, and heterosexual men and heterosexual women, users of methamphetamines rep orted more sexual partners than non-methamphetamine users. Among heter osexuals, a greater percentage of methamphetamine users than nonusers participated in anal intercourse. Methamphetamine use was independentl y related to decreased condom use during vaginal and anal intercourse, prostitution, and sex with known injection drug users. In addition, m ethamphetamine users were more likely to have: had a sexually transmit ted disease. When controlling for race or ethnicity; age; exposure to possibly infected blood or blood products; and the use of cocaine, alc ohol, or marijuana during sex, methamphetamine-using bisexual men were more likely to test positive for HIV than those reporting no history of methamphetamine use. Our data suggest that noninjection methampheta naine use is related to increased, unprotected sexual activity and the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.