Objective: To describe HIV risk behaviors among Filipino amphetamine (Shabu) users in San Francisco. Methods: A total of 84 Filipino Shabu users were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The measures included drug use and sexual behaviors, positive expectation on drug use, shame of drug use, fatalism, activities of social support, life satisfaction, social competence, and acculturation. Results: Demographics of the participants in the study are: 82% male; average age=28.9 years; 71% born in Philippines; average length of stay in the U.S. among immigrants=17.6 years; 39% some college or college degree; 60% never married. 94% of the sample self-identified as heterosexual. In the past 6 months, in addition to Shabu, the participants had used marijuana (69%), crack (29%), cocaine (30%), heroin (7%), speed-ball (7%), depressants (10%), and hallucinogens (7%). The study participants were sexually very active. During the past 6 months, 39% had 2 to 5 sex partners, 5% had more than 6 sex partners. The participants reported that 44% of these sex partners were also Shabu users. In the past 30 days, 23% of the participants reported that they took Shabu during or immediately before having sex. 45% reported that they had never used condoms. Only 21% had been tested for HIV. Conclusions: Many Filipinos use Shabu exclusively within their communities. Many Filipino Shabu users are sexually active and have engaged in unsafe sex. Culturally specific HIV prevention programs targeting Filipino Shabu users are needed.
Learning Objectives: This paper will be presented as a part of the special panel regarding AAPI drug use isseus (Chair: Rumi Price, Co-Chair: Tooru Nemoto)
Keywords: Asian Americans, Drug Use
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
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.