The San Francisco Chronicle reported Aug. 16 that researchers reviewed anonymous HIV tests from 2000 and 2001 and found that, of those who voluntarily disclosed that they used crystal methamphetamine, 6 percent were recently infected with HIV, compared to 2 percent of non meth users. Among those who said they used meth during sexual encounters, the HIV-infection rate was 8 percent.

While overall HIV rates are down in the U.S., public-health officials in cities like San Francisco have been reporting an increased association between crystal-meth use, high-risk sex, and HIV infection among gay and bisexual men.

"It is a complicated problem requiring a carefully planned response," Dilley said. "Having doctors, public-health officials, policymakers and, most importantly, community members working together is the only means of success.''

The research was reported in the Sept. 2, 2005 issue of the journal AIDS.

COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE:

Your Turn! Post a public comment (read guidelines):

Name:
Comment: (limit 200 words)
Enter this word (help):	Change

GUIDELINES: 
To keep this feature useful for everyone, please:

1. Keep it clean, courteous, focused, and on-topic. Comments are meant for thoughtful discussion of the article published above.
   
   
2. Do not post personal requests for help or general promotions for your organization (Get help).
   
   
3. Proof your comments carefully, use good spelling and punctuation, and don't use ALL CAPS. Comments are published immediately and cannot be edited.

Deceptive, slanderous and commercially-motivated posts are prohibited. We reserve the right to remove comments not conforming to these guidelines. (Report a comment).

Have questions or feedback? Contact us.