Differences in sexual risk behaviors among male and female HIV-seronegative heterosexual methamphetamine users.
BACKGROUND
Despite increased awareness and attention towards methamphetamine (MA) use among men who have sex with men (MSM), few studies have examined behaviors and effects of MA use among heterosexual populations.


OBJECTIVE
To learn whether behaviors and effects of MA use among heterosexuals differ according to gender.


METHODS
We examined gender differences in sociodemographic characteristics, drug use practices, sexual behaviors, and consequences and motivations for MA use among 452 HIV-negative MA users (306 men, 146 women) who had engaged in unprotected sex and used MA in the previous two months.


RESULTS
Females in the sample were younger and more likely to be married, to have been diagnosed with an STI in the last two months, and to report having been introduced to MA by a sexual partner. Women were also more likely to experience depressive symptoms and to report using MA "to lose weight." Men were more likely to engage in sex marathons while high on MA and to use MA "to enhance sexual pleasure."


CONCLUSIONS
These differences suggest the importance of crafting gender-specific intervention messages, and they may contribute to identifying individuals at risk for initiating MA use.


CONCLUSIONS
Our findings contribute to our knowledge of gender differences in behaviors and effects of MA use among heterosexuals. Future studies would benefit from collection of longitudinal data (to assess causal relationships) and use of a control group (to distinguish correlates of MA use from those of drug use in general).
Cheng
W Susan
WS
Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, 92093-0680, USA.
Garfein
Richard S
RS
Semple
Shirley J
SJ
Strathdee
Steffanie A
SA
Zians
James K
JK
Patterson
Thomas L
TL
D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D019969:Amphetamine-Related Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D003376:Counseling; D005260:Female; D006679:HIV Seropositivity / Q000523:psychology; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D020010:Heterosexuality / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008694:Methamphetamine; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D018579:Patient Selection; D012307:Risk Factors; D012309:Risk-Taking; D012737:Sex Factors; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D008694:Methamphetamine