Associations between sociodemographic characteristics and substance use disorder severity among methamphetamine-using men who have sex with men

Abstract

Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) have elevated rates of substance use disorders (SUDs) and differences across sociodemographic sub-groups of MSM are associated with a greater risk of deleterious outcomes. Although studies have shown that MSM report greater rates of polysubstance use relative to other adult populations, the associations between sociodemographic characteristics and both acute substance use and substance use severity among methamphetamine-using MSM are unknown. Objectives: The present study examines associations between sociodemographic characteristics and (a) recent substance use and (b) SUD severity. Method: From March 2014 to January 2016, 286 methamphetamine-using MSM were recruited to complete a baseline Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interview (ACASI) assessment and the SCID MINI. Multivariable analyses employed generalized structural equation modeling given the non-continuous nature of the endogenous variables. Results: All measured sociodemographic characteristics except gay self-identification were significantly associated with recent substance use (all ps ≤ .05), and all characteristics except current homelessness were significantly associated with diagnostic SUD severity (all ps ≤ .05). However, nuanced risks were observed in participants’ use of specific substances regarding recent substance use and substance use severity. Conclusion: These results suggest that multiple factors contribute to the risks of SUD severity among methamphetamine-using MSM. As such, these results are useful in the tailoring of clinical and psychosocial intervention strategies that serve this and other high-risk populations.