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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Jeffrey T. Parsons, PhD, Center for HIV Educational Studies and Training (CHEST), Hunter College, 250 West 26th St., Suite 300, New York, NY 10009, 212-206-7919 X 226, jeffrey.parsons@hunter.cuny.edu, David Bimbi, Center for HIV Educational Studies and Training (CHEST), Hunter College, City University of New York, 250 West 26th Street, Suite 300, New York, NY 10001, Jose Nanin, EdD, CHES, Center for HIV Eduational Studies and Training (CHEST), Hunter College and Kingsborough Community College, City Univeristy of New York, 250 West 26th Street, New York, NY 10001, and Joseph Moran, Below 14th St. Productions, c/o CHEST, 250 W. 26th St,. Suite 300, New York, NY 10001.

Issues: Recent research has indicated a link between the use of “club drugs” and unprotected sex among gay and bisexual men as well as the potential for dangerous interaction between these drugs and HIV medications. Innovative interventions for this population are clearly needed.

Description: This video was developed based on extensive interviews with HIV positive gay/bisexual men in New York. Two major issues emerged related to club drug use: adverse health consequences and safer sex. Additionally, participants indicated that they did not want to be preached to or lectured about their use of club drugs. Men consistently told us they wanted something new, fun, interesting, and that would entertain as well as educate. This video was our effort to address these needs while educating gay/bisexual men using humor by featuring a cast of colorful drag/drug queens who compete for the title “The Biggest Mess.” The video begins with each character, dressed in costumes related to their drug, explaining why they should win. Then, Ally Cohol (alcohol), Mary Juana (marijuana), Crystal Meth (methamphetamine), Coca Ayne (cocaine), and D'Zyna Drugs and her children Ms. Ketta Mean (Ketamine), Mr. X (MDMA), and Mr. GHB compete in a Q&A, and reveal their drug related effects on health and sexual behaviors.

Lessons learned: The 26-minute video uses humor to convey factual information about club drug use and sexual behavior and has been warmly received by focus groups.

Recommendations: While well received, the effectiveness of “The Biggest Mess” has yet to be empirically validated.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the unique effects of different club drugs.
• Articulate the impact of club drug use on sexual behavior in the gay community.
• Discuss the interaction of club drugs with HIV medications.

Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Drug Use

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation