March 17, 2008

California’s New Anti-Meth Campaign

California officials have launched an $11 million campaign, “Me Not Meth,” aimed at preventing the use of crystal methamphetamines among the state’s gay population to help curb the spread of HIV, the Los Angeles Times reports (latimes.com, 3/14).

The announcement was coupled with the release of a statewide study, which revealed that crystal meth use was 11 times more common in California’s men who have sex with men (MSM) than in the general population. Dr. Michelle Roland, chief of the AIDS office at California’s Department of Health, told the Times that crystal meth use increases the chances of having multiple unsafe sexual encounters: “Not only can [meth use] increase the likelihood of having unprotected sex, but people are also having more sex with more partners and having sex for a longer period of time, increasing the likelihood for infection.”

The campaign’s website allows users to post their own crystal meth testimonials, and provides information on programs and services that specialize in crystal meth addiction.

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Jon Benorden, Sacramento, CA, 2008-03-18 11:30:17
This is AWESOME! I'm glad people are able to share their stories and we can learn from one another!! Just like HIV, I think a lot of people have been effected and affected by Crystal Meth. I applaud the guys who share their stories...it takes a lot of strength to do that...but it's going to help SO many people!

Phl, Sydney, 2008-03-18 05:44:25
I wish Australia had a similar awareness to its own problem with Crystal. Everyone is on it. Me included.