Community Field-lab HIV/AIDS for Stimulant Harm Reduction, with focus on Chemsex Intervention

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General Information

Fullname: Community Field-lab HIV/AIDS for Stimulant Harm Reduction, with focus on Chemsex Intervention

Donor(s): ViiVhealth Positive Action

Period: 2024 - 2026

Location: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong city

Thực hiện: Harm Reduction and Addiction Treatment Program

Chemsex – the practice of combining sexual activities with stimulant drug use – is becoming increasingly prevalent in Vietnam and many countries in the region, accompanied by the rise of synthetic drugs and other stimulants. However, current intervention programs mainly focus on people who inject drugs, leading to a gap in interventions for those engaged in Chemsex practices.

Community Field Lab for Stimulant Harm Reduction in Southeast Asia (C-FLASH), implemented by SCDI during the 2022-2023 period, developed a specialized intervention package addressing Chemsex and mental health for stimulant drug users. This initiative helped to better reveal critical gaps in supporting individuals engaged in Chemsex behaviors, including challenges such as clients’ hesitation to discuss sexual practices openly and the technical difficulties faced by CBO members, even those with experience in delivering comprehensive support and mental health services.

The Community Field-lab for Stimulant Harm Reduction, with focus on Chemsex Interventions aims to fill the gap, expand Chemsex interventions for stimulant users in Vietnam, and enhance expertise in Chemsex intervention across Southeast Asia. While this is not the first initiative in Vietnam to implement interventions for individuals practicing Chemsex, a key highlight of the project is the expansion of comprehensive services to diverse community groups, particularly high-risk populations: drug users, sex workers, men who have sex with men (MSM), and transgender individuals practicing Chemsex using multiple substances.

2024 Key results

In 2024, 03 community groups screened and provided comprehensive support to 574 clients who practice Chemsex. This support included testing and referrals for HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and hepatitis C; support for PrEP access; and mental health counseling. In addition, harm reduction supplies such as condoms, lubricants, and informational materials on safer Chemsex practices were distributed.

05 clients were diagnosed with HIV and were supported to access treatment. 29 clients received mental health consultations and treatment, helping them better manage issues related to anxiety, depression, and stimulant use disorders.