Understanding and Treating the Crystal Methamphetamine Emerging Health Crisis: Using Community-Based Resources at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center

SUMMARY

Recent research on crystal methamphetamine use among gay, bisexual and men who have sex with men (MSM) in the greater New York City metropolitan area indicates that crystal meth use is rising in this population and that it is correlated to increased risk for HIV, addiction, medical and mental disorders. Prevention and treatment of crystal meth related problems that are sensitive to the needs of MSM populations must be further developed to address this emerging crisis. Gay-identified community-based programs provide a viable resource within which to develop and deliver such services but will need more resources and funding to meet the growing demand.

KEYWORDS:

• AIDS
• bisexual men
• community based organization
• crystal meth
• gay men
• harm reduction
• HIV
• homosexuality
• men having sex with men (MSM)
• methamphetamine
• substance abuse
• trans-theoretical model