The second epidemic.

Thanks for Jeremy Quittner's excellent reporting on why crystal meth can no longer be an accepted norm in our community ["Crystal's Destructive Path," March 16]. Crystal is used to buy friendship, sex, or just future customers. It flows like dollar bills--except it's a destructive currency that no longer can be ignored.

Young people coming to San Francisco seeking a mecca are instead introduced to meth. The results can be addiction, homelessness, or becoming HIV-positive if there aren't interventions for housing, support, and employment. We are working to expand services to our young people, but the reality is that there are not adequate substance abuse services for young adults. I am asking our national LGBT organizations to establish a working group that can bring together local leaders and seek needed policy changes at the federal level.

The challenge of crystal is that it's about the sex. It offers a level of intimacy and sexual confidence that users say they could not find otherwise. We should all do what we can to contribute to a more caring and loving community. I hope The Advocate win continue to tell the personal stories and inspire us to combat this second epidemic in out midst.

Bevan Dufty, board of supervisors San Francisco, Calif.