The Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) has launched a new interdisciplinary Chemsex Centre in Antwerp, marking the first specialised centre of its kind in Belgium. Starting in May 2026, the initiative responds to a growing demand for tailored care among people who use drugs in a sexual context.
The centre brings together healthcare, research and community engagement to support individuals experiencing physical, mental or social problems linked to chemsex. It builds on ITM’s long-standing expertise in sexual health, including HIV care and PrEP follow-up.
A widespread but evolving phenomenon
Chemsex refers to the use of psychoactive substances before or during sex to enhance pleasure, reduce inhibitions and prolong sexual activity. While this can initially lead to feelings of euphoria, connection and increased energy, it also carries significant risks.
A recent meta-analysis by researchers at Athens‘ University of West Attica – specifically its Department of Public Health Policy at the School of Public Health – found that 22% of men who have sex with men (MSM) worldwide have engaged in chemsex. The analysis covers 238 studies involving more than 380,000 participants, with Europe consistently showing the highest prevalence for several substances.
Although chemsex is most commonly studied among MSM, it is not limited to this group. Its geography has also shifted. With the rise of apps such as Grindr and changes since the COVID-19 pandemic, the practice increasingly takes place in private settings rather than exclusively in large urban nightlife scenes.
Speaking to the ITM press office, De Standaard and ATV, Tom Platteau, sexologist at ITM, underlines the need for nuance: “We consciously speak of a phenomenon, not a problem. It only becomes a problem when participants experience it as such. Many people engage in chemsex without major impact, but for others the consequences can be significant.”
Rising demand and complex care needs
At ITM, clinicians have seen a clear increase in people seeking help. The issues they present are rarely isolated. They range from overdoses and sexually transmitted infections to sleep deprivation, mental health challenges, and broader social or professional difficulties.
“Support services often focus solely on sex or solely on substance use”, says Platteau. “But it is precisely the combination of these factors that is crucial. The classical forms of care have reached their limits.”
Some users report losing the ability to have sex without drugs, while others struggle with dependency patterns, regret after sexual encounters, or an inability to maintain relationships or daily routines. In more severe cases, chemsex can contribute to job loss, social isolation or ongoing physical complications.
A personalised and realistic approach
The Chemsex Centre aims to bridge these gaps through a multidisciplinary team of doctors, psychologists, sexologists and social workers. Care begins with an intake consultation, where individuals can discuss their experiences, expectations and concerns in a non-judgemental setting.
From there, a tailored care pathway is developed. This may include medical follow-up, mental health support, sexual health counselling or referral to specialised external services.
“We know by now that simply telling people to stop does not work”, Platteau says. “Instead, we work with small, achievable steps; reducing frequency, planning ahead, and integrating other forms of social connection.”
Importantly, stopping chemsex is not always the primary goal. “We always start from personal goals”, the centre states. “For some, that means stopping. For others, it means regaining control.”
Broader health support and prevention
The centre also integrates a wide range of sexual health and prevention services. These include low-threshold access to PrEP and PEP, screening for sexually transmitted infections, vaccinations, and comprehensive HIV and hepatitis follow-up.
Users are encouraged to reflect on their own situation. Warning signs that may indicate a need for support include increasing use, difficulty functioning in daily life, reliance on drugs to have sex, or concerns about health and safety.
Research and innovation at the core
Scientific research is embedded in the centre’s activities, with the aim of continuously improving care and deepening understanding of chemsex in all its dimensions. Participation in studies is voluntary and does not affect access to care.
ITM also collaborates with partners such as Sensoa, the Flemish Expertise Centre for Alcohol and Other Drugs (VAD) and Ghent University Hospital, as well as policymakers, reflecting the need for a coordinated response.
Digital support and international exchange
Alongside in-person care, ITM has developed the Budd app, a digital self-care tool designed to help users better manage their chemsex experiences. The app provides practical guidance before, during and after sessions, encouraging safer choices and self-reflection.
The launch of the centre follows increasing international collaboration on the topic. Earlier this year, ITM hosted the International Chemsex Conference, bringing together 242 participants from 25 countries.
“Chemsex is an international phenomenon”, says Platteau. “By sharing knowledge and experiences, we enhance the quality and humanity of care for people affected by this.”
