The influence of drug consumption on condom use and other aspects related to HIV infection among male sex workers in Spain

Abstract

Higher rates of substance use have been associated with unsafe sex behavior. Male sex workers (MSW) present high rates of drug use during or after the professional sexual exchange with clients and also in their leisure. This research describes patterns of drug consumption among MSW in Spain and explores both the effect of substance use on professional and risk sexual behaviors. Participants were 100 agency MSW offering their services in Valencia and Castellón (Spain). Most of them were drug users and the most common substances were "soft drugs" and cocaine. An absence of injection drugs was found. Drug consumers indicated a higher HIV risk perceived and lower perceived influence of substance use on condom use negotiation. Drug influence on condom use is not clear. More investigation about drug influence on sexual risk behaviors among MSW is needed. The role of steady partners and clients must be taken into account too.