Riddell, J. , Boydell, N. and McDaid, L. (2016) P173 Multi-drug use, and associated factors, within a community based sample of Gay and Bisexual Men in Scotland. BASHH Conference, Oxford, UK, 10-12 July 2016. A78-A78. (doi: 10.1136/sextrans-2016-052718.223)
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Abstract
Background/introduction: Research suggests that drug use may be higher among men who have sex with men (MSM), and links between drug use and risky sexual behaviours are well established. Evidence suggests that MSM who report ‘ever using’ drugs may report using a variety of drug types. Aim(s)/objectives: To explore multi-drug use and associated sexual risk behaviours within a community sample of MSM in Scotland. Methods: Analysis of data from 1292 MSM participating in bar-based surveys in Scotland in 2014. Factors related to ‘ever using’ and multi-drug use within the previous 12 months were examined. Multi-drug use was calculated using those who reported more than one type of drug use in the previous 12 months (injecting, snorting or psychoactive drugs). Results: The mean age of men sampled was 34.72 years (range 18–82, SD = 11.23). Most men identified as gay (92.3%) and reported being educated post 16 (85.8%). 42.6% of men reported ‘ever using’ drugs and of those, 55.3% had used within the last 12 months. 47.8% of men using within the last 12 months reported multi-drug use. Men who had used drugs within the last 12 months and those reporting multi-drug use were more likely to report more risky sex, specifically group sex. However, they also reported higher rates of both HIV and STI testing. Discussion/conclusion: The percentage of men reporting multi-drug use is consistent with previous research. Although men reported more risky sexual behaviours, testing rates would suggest they understand and respond to these risks. HIV/STI screening may present opportunities to identify and address potentially problematic drug use with attendees.
| Item Type: | Conference or Workshop Item |
|---|---|
| Additional Information: | Poster presented at BASHH Conference, Oxford, 10-12 July 2016. |
| Status: | Published |
| Refereed: | Yes |
| Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: | Boydell, Dr Nicola and McDaid, Professor Lisa and Riddell, Miss Julie |
| Authors: | Riddell, J., Boydell, N., and McDaid, L. |
| Subjects: | H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General) R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA0421 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive Medicine |
| College/School: | College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU |
| Research Group: | MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit |
| Journal Name: | Sexually Transmitted Infections |
| Journal Abbr.: | STIs |
| Publisher: | BMJ Publishing Group |
| ISSN: | 1368-4973 |
| ISSN (Online): | 1472-3263 |
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