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Sex, Touch, and HIV Risk Among Ecstasy Users

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We examined HIV risk among heavy and nonheavy ecstasy users, focusing specifically on touch and sexual behavior as part of the ecstasy experience. Structured interviews were conducted with 268 young adult (age 18–25) ecstasy users in Atlanta, Georgia. Heavy ecstasy users were more likely to have been tested for HIV than nonheavy users (79 vs. 68%). However, they also were more likely to perceive no chance of contracting HIV (36 vs. 26%). Touch, both sensual and sexual, was a significant part of the ecstasy experience. In addition, ecstasy use seemed to increase the sexual desire, however, not the ability to achieve an orgasm. Heavy users reported more sexual risk-taking than their nonheavy using counterparts. Results suggest that the setting of ecstasy use also may influence involvement in risk behaviors. Future longitudinal studies are needed on the relationship between ecstasy use, touch, sexual arousal and ability, and risk behavior.

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

This research was supported by NIDA grant R01 DA014232 and the Emory Center for AIDS Research. The views presented in this paper are those of the authors and do not represent those of the funding agencies. We thank Miriam Boeri for the coordination of the data collection and all the field staff and the participants who made this study possible.

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Correspondence to Claire E. Sterk.

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Theall, K.P., Elifson, K.W. & Sterk, C. Sex, Touch, and HIV Risk Among Ecstasy Users. AIDS Behav 10, 169–178 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10461-005-9059-1

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