"A national study calls methamphetamine abuse the most difficult addiction to treat and ranks it as California's fastest growing drug problem," the offensive UPI story began, adding "There are reports that in the San Francisco gay community, use of meth is related to 'marathon sex,' which is often unprotected. Its popularity in the gay community is now spreading to blue collar workers, young professionals and college students..."

UPI Assistant General Manager Tom Gauger expressed concern over the story in conversations with GLAAD, noting that the otherwise reputable wire service had no desire to appear biased or sloppy in its reportage. He asked GLAAD to examine the initial report to ascertain whether or not the bias came from the journalist or the initial report on which the story was based.

Pulse Check: Special Report, Methamphetamine Trends in Five Western States and Hawaii, by the Office of National Drug Policy, does connect San Francisco gay usage to "marathon sex," but this is a minor part of a much larger report.

The UPI writer exclusively highlighted the San Francisco user data while ignoring the findings on users in the larger cities of Los Angeles and San Diego, both of which have more widespread problems. Moreover, the study clearly states that in statewide usage:

"There are two basic profiles of users: 1.) students, both high school and college age, males and females, and, 2.) white, blue collar workers or unemployed persons in their twenties."

When provided with this evidence, UPI then reviewed their story. On Tuesday, December 16, they issued the following statement:

"Thanks for your letter-your points are valid. The story does not meet out standards and can be read in a way that gives a misleading impression out of context of the original report. We strive for accuracy, fairness and balance in our news reports and all those involved in this one have been reminded of that."

Please write UPI and let them know that the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community appreciates their acknowledgment. However, suggest to them that UPI institute sexual orientation trainings for its journalists, and issue guidelines on bias-free journalism to its staff so that incidents like this can be averted in the future. Contact: John Walston, Director of Editorial, UPI, 1400 Eye Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20005, fax: 202.898.8064, e-mail: jwalston@upi.com.