KAOHSIUNG, Taiwan – The 8th Asia-Pacific Chemsex Symposium (APCS 2026), held from October 28 to 29, has welcomed civil society organizations, medical professionals, researchers, and community advocates from across the region to address public health challenges affecting LGBTQ+ communities. Discussions cover sexual and mental health, along with specialized care for people living with HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The symposium also examines harm reduction approaches that provide support without stigma or discrimination. Participants are discussing improvements to public health policies, legal frameworks, and medical services related to substance use and addiction treatment, with an emphasis on making care more accessible and responsive to the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Among the participating organizations is Impulse Bangkok, a volunteer-led community group operating under AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Thailand. Its work covers sexual health, mental health, harm reduction, and social activism, guided by its mission to engage, support, and connect gay men. Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2026 under the theme Connect, Support, the organization has reached more than 5,210 participants through 35 major events over the past decade. (NNT)
