Recent data suggest that, overall, substance use among gay men, particularly; alcohol use has declined over the past two decades. However, both heavy drinking and use of drugs other than alcohol appear to be prevalent among both young gay males and among some older groups of gay men. Alcohol consumption among gay men does not seem to decrease with age as quickly as they do among heterosexuals. However, these few studies predominately reflect middle-aged Caucasian gay men. Sub-populations of gay men (i.e., rural, young, older, gay men of color, etc.) need to be included within surveys. It is imperative that adequate data and information be available to estimate the need and demand and availability of substance abuse treatment for the gay male population. Specific questions regarding gender preference and/or sexual practices should be added to current surveys. This presentation examines the substance abuse and tobacco chapters in the companion document from a gay male perspective. Participants will explore gaps in information and data, as well as barriers to substance abuse treatment for the gay males. The primary aim for participants is to reasonably foster the discourse initiated by the companion document on alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use in the gay male community. The subsequent step is turning the discourse into effective policies for change throughout the next decade.
Learning Objectives: 1. Identify research data and information gaps as well as barriers to adequate substance abuse treatment for the gay male community. 2. Evaluate, through the lens of the gay male population, the HP 2010 LGBT Companion Document substance abuse and tobacco chapters. 3. Apply the HP 2010 LGBT Companion Document objectives of the substance abuse and tobacco chapters to the gay male community with the goal of creating change and affecting relevant policies.
Keywords: Research Agenda, Gay Men
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.