Methamphetamine use and sexual risk: A comparison of Mexican and Mexican-American women in the San Diego/Tijuana border region

Objectives: In California, the border counties of San Diego and Imperial exhibit some of the highest methamphetamine (MA) use in the US. On both sides of the border, women constitute roughly 50% of the population, while women of childbearing age account for approximately 24%. Epidemiological portraits that reflect the sociocultural, economic and physical environments in which women develop are lacking, with particular regard to MA use as women represent 43% of treatment admissions in the US. This study will examine MA use and sexual risk among Mexican women in treatment on both sides of the border.

Methods: Cross-sectional assessment of drug using and sexual behaviors to identify differential presentation of risk factors. Data was collected via survey from women attending treatment facilities in San Diego, California (n=59) and Tijuana, Mexico (n=70) in 2005-2007.

Results: MA use and sexual risk among Mexican women on both sides of the border will be examined in the context of number of sexual partners, utilization of HIV testing, prevalence of STI, polydrug use, frequency of MA use, route of administration, and sensation-seeking behavior.

Discussion: MA use is a border health priority that requires bi-national effort and perspective. Interdisciplinary border-focused research is necessary to identify, promote, and organize interventions that address the origins of drug abuse, the consequences of addiction, and the factors that influence relapse & recovery. The role of gender and culture are fundamental to efficacious design and implementation of substance-abuse programs in the San Diego/Tijuana border region.