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International Journal of
Population Studies Chemsex among MSM during the COVID-19 pandemic

Health‑ care interventions or measures N/A N/A (Cont’d...)

Digital health technologies N/A N/A

Health disparities An upswing in illegal substance use among MSM necessitated the formulation of customized social, financial, and mental health assistance strategies amid the pandemic. N/A

Accessibility of health‑ care services Significant challenges accessing PrEP and ART refills were highlighted, emphasizing the need for tailored support policies for MSM. With the vital need for HIV testing and PrEP follow- up at the forefront, it became even more evident that the management of substance misuse and mental wellness challenges was of crucial importance, as underscored by the emphasis

Mental health issues Considerable levels of anxiety, isolation, and loneliness among MSM engaging in chemsex due to the pandemic were highlighted. N/A

Sexual behaviors and drug usage During social distancing, MSM reported fewer sexual partners and increased use of illicit drugs such as marijuana and cocaine. In the early stages of quarantine, there was a decrease in sexual interactions with casual partners. In addition, some MSM engaged in sexual behaviors influenced by chemsex.

Trends Increased N/A

Samples 3,486 MSM aged older than 18 years 694 MSM aged 18 or older

Design Cross- sectional study Cross- sectional study

Table 2. (Continued) Country Sources Brazil Torres et al. (2021) Belgium Reyniers, (2021)

Volume 10 Issue 4 (2024) 25 https://doi.org/10.36922/ijps.2599