Introduction: To describe substance use and high risk sexual behaviors among gay men in a rural state.
Methods: Data were collected in 1996-1999 among men attending Gay/Lesbian pride marches and gay bars.
Results: A total of 770, sexually active, gay/bisexual men were included in this analysis. 88% were white, 63% were 30 years-old or older. Among young gay men, 43% reported having sex with alcohol, 22% had sex with drugs, 34% used marijuana, 11% cocaine, and 5% amyl nitrate in the last three months. Among older gay men, 49% reported having sex with alcohol, 21% had sex with drugs, 29% used marijuana, 9% amyl nitrate, and 6% used intravenous drugs. Among young gay men, 56% reported inconsistent condom use during anal sex, 33% had anal sex with multiple partners, and 48% received semen in their mouth during oral sex in the last three months. Among older gay men, 50% reported inconsistent condom use during anal sex, 25% had anal sex with multiple partners, 45% received semen in their mouth during oral sex. Twenty-five percent of the younger gay men had never been tested for HIV antibody as compared to 16% of older gay men.
Conclusion: Young gay men use different kinds of drugs than older men. Although young gay men appear to engage in more risky sexual behaviors, this study shows that older gay men still engage in high risk behaviors. Targeted interventions must take into consideration these age-related differences in substance use and sexual behaviors.
Learning Objectives: 1. Identify prevalence of substance use among rural gay men. 2. Describe high risk sexual behaviors among rural gay men. 3. Discuss the study implications for preventing HIV and substance use among rural gay men
Keywords: Substance Abuse, Sexual Behavior
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.