As men who have sex with men (MSM) have distinctive substance use patterns related to sex (e.g., PnP), researchers sought to outline the preliminary development of a screening tool for health-risk sexual behaviours related to substance use (SU), reviewing recommendations for potential use. Currently, health-risk sexual behaviour related to SU screening is limited to HIV and other STBBIs. Meanwhile, service providers describe difficulties in addressing sexual orientation and sexual health from a multidimensional perspective, creating limits for identifying and fulfilling the needs of MSM who use substances. Accordingly, the researchers engaged in a pilot study to develop a comprehensive screening tool for health-risk sexual behaviours (HRSB) and substance use (SU) tailored specifically towards MSM. Links-SU-Sex was initially developed and piloted in Montreal, Quebec, and is founded on the principles of community-based research and transdisciplinary approaches, suggesting that community members, service providers, and stakeholders were involved in the conceptualization and development of the measure. As such, the development process involved consultation with these aforementioned groups, and a scoping literature review.

Upon reviewing these initial findings, the researchers developed a 24-64 item measure (dependent on previous answers) assessing 13 components surrounding HRSB-SU and related concerns. The measure takes between 10 to 20 minutes to complete, and accordingly, is highly practical for even brief engagements. The use of an event-related assessment is logical, as it facilitates in recalling sexual encounters under the influence of substances, such as those surrounding PnP. Specific items assess SU contexts and frequency, perceptions of its influence and their concerns about the links between SU and sexual health. Further, five subcomponents of motivation to change one’s SU were adapted for HRSB-SU (concern, readiness, importance, self-efficacy, intention to make change).

Ultimately, this screening tool provides an opportunity for providers to holistically measure the intersections between their client’s substance use and sexual behaviours. In comparison to other measures, the Links SU-Sex has been validated, and shows good content validity and reliability. Accordingly, the measure provides a solid opportunity for service providers to engage with their clients who PnP, garnering quantitative insight into their perceptions about their use behaviour, perhaps preceding care plans and goal setting.

Goyette, M., Flores-Aranda, J., Bertrand, K., Pronovost, F., Aubut, V., Ortiz, R., & Saint-Jacques, M. (2018). Links SU-Sex: Development of a Screening Tool for Health-Risk Sexual Behaviours Related to Substance Use Among Men Who Have Sex with Men. Sexual Health, 15(2), 160-166. https://doi.org/10.1071/SH17134