SEXUAL AND SUBSTANCE USE ACTS OF GAY AND BISEXUAL MALE-ADOLESCENTS IN NEW-YORK-CITY

Lifetime and current sexual and substance use behaviors were examined among 131 predominantly Hispanic and Black gay and bisexual adolescent males in New York City. Many youths engaged in anal sex with males (80%), and 22% bartered sex for money or drugs. Condom use with male partners typically was initiated one year after a youth became sexually active, was more common with male than female partners, and was more common with anal than with oral sex. Condoms with male partners were never or inconsistently used by 52% of youths. Youths reported high rates of lifetime alcohol (76%), marijuana (42%), and cocaine / crack (25%) use; none reported intravenous drug use. Current alcohol and drug use was significantly related to sexual risk acts. These findings indicate that HIV-prevention programs for homosexual and bisexual male youths are critical and must address sex with females, inconsistent condom use, and sexual practices while under the influence of drugs and alcohol.