MDMA ("Ecstasy") abuse and high-risk sexual behaviors among 169 gay and bisexual men

Objective: The authors explored the association between abuse of 3,4-methyl enedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, or "Ecstasy") and high-risk sexual behaviors among gay and bisexual men. Method: An anonymous questionnaire was completed by 169 gay and bisexual me n at three New York City dance clubs. The questionnaire covered demographic indices, use of MDMA and other drugs, and history of high-risk sexual beha viors. Results: About one-third of the respondents reported MDMA use at least mont hly. MDMA use was strongly and significantly associated with a history of r ecent unprotected anal intercourse. This association remained equally stron g even after controlling for age, ethnicity, and all other forms of drug us e, including alcohol. Conclusions: MDMA abuse, and its strong association with highrisk sexual be haviors, appears to represent important unexplored public health problems a mong some gay or bisexual men.