Muscularity disturbance and methamphetamine use among HIV-infected men who have sex with men

Abstract

Previous research has established a link between methamphetamine use and body dissatisfaction among HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM). However, to date, no study has examined the specific role that muscularity disturbance, a key component of body dissatisfaction among men, has in this relationship. Thus, the current study aimed to examine links between muscularity disturbance and methamphetamine use among HIV-infected MSM. Participants were 97 HIV-infected MSM, who completed a number of self-report measures of muscularity disturbance, depressive symptoms, and substance use. Results indicated that after controlling for depression and polysubstance use, elevated muscularity disturbance was associated with increased methamphetamine use. Future interventions may benefit from integrating body image dissatisfaction and methamphetamine use in an approach that encompasses the intertwined psychosocial stressors that HIV-infected MSM face.