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Abstract
Background: Previous research among drug-using men who have sex with men (MSM) indicates that trading sex for methamphetamine may be common. Objectives: This study identified background characteristics, substance use variables, contextual factors, and sexual risk behaviors associated with trading sex for methamphetamine in a sample of HIV-positive MSM. Baseline data were gathered from 155 participants who were enrolled in a sexual risk-reduction intervention. Logistic regression was used to compare MSM who traded sex for methamphetamine with men who did not. Results: Forty-three percent of the sample reported trading sex for methamphetamine in the past 2 months. Trading sex for methamphetamine was associated with being a binge user, homelessness, having an income of less than $20,000 per year, being less assertive at turning down drugs, engaging in more anal sex without a condom, and seeking out risky sex partners when high on methamphetamine. Conclusion: These data suggest that the trading of sex for methamphetamine may be a primary source of new HIV infections within and outside of the MSM community, necessitating targeted interventions with this vulnerable subgroup.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Funding for this research was provided by NIH Grant DA021115 (T.L. Patterson, P.I.).
Declaration of Interest
The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.