Web site targets
gay and bi male use of crystal meth

AIDS Project Los Angeles and New York City-based Gay Men's Health Crisis announced the launch of tweakends.org, a Web site dedicated to helping gay and bisexual men understand crystal meth. A press release from the two organizations stated that the Web site is intended to educate gay and bisexual men on the impact of crystal meth on their physical, mental, and sexual health. This comes after a notable increase in the number of gay men using the drug.

The site has an interactive feature using medical information and candid discussion to inform visitors. The February 1 launch coincides with the second National Conference on Methamphetamine, HIV, and Hepatitis in Salt Lake City.

The Web site is an extension of the work being done by APLA and GMHC. APLA runs a crystal meth program for users of the drug and their concerned friends that aims to reduce the risk of HIV infection and social isolation. GMHC offers individual and group counseling and a drop-in support group for men confronting their crystal use and sexual health concerns, and has created multiple social marketing campaigns to raise awareness about crystal use and to get men into treatment. (The Advocate)