A Double Epidemic: Crystal Methamphetamine Drug Use in Relation to HIV Transmission Among Gay Men Perry N. Halkitis, MS, PhD New York University Jeffrey T. Parsons, PhD Hunter College, CUNY Michael J. Stirratt, MA Columbia University ABSTRACT. Emerging research on methamphetamine use among gay men suggests that growth in the use of this drug could present serious problems for HIV/AIDS prevention within the gay community. This article summarizes current studies on the extent, role, and context of methamphetamine use among gay men and its relationship to high risk sexual behaviors related to HIV transmission. Methamphetamine is often used by gay men to initiate, enhance, and prolong sexual encoun- ters. Use of the drug is, therefore, associated with particular environ- ments where sexual contact among gay men is promoted, such as sex clubs and large ‘‘circuit’’ parties. Research with gay and bisexual men Perry N. Halkitis is a Professor in the Department of Applied Psychology at New York University. Jeffrey T. Parsons is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at Hunter College, CUNY. Michael J. Stirratt is affiliated with The HIV Center, Colum- bia University. Correspondence may be addressed to Perry N. Halkitis, New York University, 239 Greene Street, East 537G, New York, NY 10003 (E-mail: pnh1@ is6.nyu.edu). Journal of Homosexuality, Vol. 41(2) 2001 E 2001 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved. 17