The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #45740

George S. Yacoubian, PhD, McFarland and Associates, Inc, 8601 Georgia Avenue, Suite 601, Silver Spring, MD 20910, (301) 562-5332, gyacoubian@mcfarlandassociate.com

The use of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or “ecstasy”) appears to be increasing worldwide, with “rave” attendees being one high-risk population. To date, however, only one study has collected self-report drug use information from rave attendees in the United States. To address this limitation, we collected self-report drug use information and oral fluid specimens from “club rave” attendees within the Baltimore-Washington corridor. Data collection was scheduled between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m. In addition to the prevalence of recent ecstasy and other drug use, we present findings on the perceived harm of ecstasy and other drugs and the relationship between ecstasy use, demographic characteristics, and other drug use. Policy implications for these findings are discussed.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, conference attendees will have the learned the following

• the prevalence of ecstasy use among a sample of rave attendees;
• the relationship between ecstasy use, demographic characteristics, and other drug use (including alcohol); and
• a comparison of perceived drug harm between recent ecstasy users and non-ecstasy users. These findings hold important implications for ecstasy interdiction efforts and the delivery of ecstasy prevention services.

Keywords: Drug Test, Drug Use

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.