Religiosity among Female Methamphetamine Users in San Francisco

Background: Religiosity is associated with decreased health risk behaviors and positive mental health outcomes. Although examined among substance users in recovery, a paucity of research exists on the religiosity of current substance users. We examine associations between religiosity, mental health, substance use, sexual risk and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among methamphetamine-using women in San Francisco.

Methods: Participants (n=240) were recruited using respondent-driven sampling. They completed a quantitative survey and testing/counseling for HIV/STIs. ”High religiosity” (HR) is defined as a composite score >= 26 on the Santa Clara Strength of Religious Faith Questionnaire (SCSRFQ), and “high risk” sexual behavior is defined as unprotected vaginal or anal intercourse with >= 2 male partners in the past 6 months.

Results: 72.1% scored >=26 on the SCSRFQ. HR was more common among women over 30(59.6% vs. 18.3%; p=.03) and African American women (37.5% vs. 20.8%; p<.0001). Neither the prevalence of depression nor levels of social support differed by religiosity. Women with HR were less likely in the past 6 months to have injected speedballs (59.6% vs. 19.6%; p=.03) or heroin (54.2% vs. 15%; p=.001). HR was not associated with “high risk” sexual behavior or HIV/STI prevalence. No association was found between religiosity and desire to quit using methamphetamine, or likelihood of entering outpatient treatment.

Conclusion: HR was common in this sample. However, associations between religiosity and positive health outcomes were not found. Qualitative exploration of the role of religiosity in this population might promote a better understanding of its impact on health behavior.