Chemsex, risk behaviours and sexually transmitted infections among men who have sex with men in Dublin, Ireland

Drug use for or during sex (‘chemsex’) among MSM has caused concern, because of the direct effects of the drugs themselves, and because of an increased risk of transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This study aimed to assess the prevalence of chemsex, associated behaviours and STIs among attendees at Ireland’s only MSM-specific sexual health clinic in Dublin over a six week period in 2016. The questionnaire collected demographic data, information on sexuality and sexual practice, self-reported history of treatment for STIs, and chemsex use. Key variables independently associated with treatment for STIs over the previous 12 months were identified using multivariable logistic regression. The response rate was 90% (510/568). One in four (27%) reported engaging in chemsex within the previous 12 months. Half had taken ≥2 drugs on his last chemsex occasion. One in five (23%) reported that they/their partners had lost consciousness as a result of chemsex. Those engaging in chemsex were more likely to have had more sexual partners(p