Chicago Tribune Examines How Methamphetamine Usage Hinders HIV, STD Prevention Efforts Among MSM
The Chicago Tribune on Sunday examined how methamphetamine use "is threatening long-standing efforts to stem the spread of sexually transmitted diseases in Chicago's gay community." Meth is a "highly addictive, sex-enhancing stimulant that dissovles inhibitions," according to the Tribune. HIV-positive men who are addicted to meth might not take their medications properly or have unprotected sexual intercourse, which puts others at risk of contracting the virus. Chicago-based organizations that work with HIV-positive people and organizations that target men who have sex with men are discussing a public education campaign to highlight the drug's danger, according to the Tribune. Robbin Burr -- executive director of the Center on Halsted, a community center for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people -- said, "It's time to get the word out: We all need to focus attention on how to stop the use of this drug. We're really at a pivotal point with this drug in Chicago" (Graham/Briggs, Chicago Tribune, 3/13). The complete article is available online.
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