NCJ Number
126948
Journal
International Journal on Drug Policy Volume: 2 Issue: 2 Dated: (September/October 1990) Pages: 14-17
Date Published
1990
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Syringe exchange is an accepted part of the United Kingdom's response to the prevention of HIV transmission among people who inject drugs.
Abstract
A remarkable feature of the syringe exchange strategy, initiated in 1986, is the fact that it has been extensively documented, monitored, and evaluated. Syringe exchange programs are beneficial in reaching people who might not be reached by more conventional drug services, they attract people who are motivated to change their behavior, and they often provide advice and counseling to clients as well as syringe exchange services. There is considerable evidence that people who participate in syringe exchange programs achieve and maintain lower risk behavior. Even though syringe sharing rates are decreasing and self-reported sharing in lower, however, many drug users continue to share needles. Assuming between 35,000 and 75,000 injectors in the United Kingdom need a clean syringe daily, between 13.5 and 27 million syringes need to be distributed yearly. Current distribution falls far short of this. Another problem is that most people who inject drugs are sexually active. Syringe distribution should therefore be supplemented by instruction in protective strategies related to both drug and sexual risks. The policy environment which made syringe exchange programs possible in the United Kingdom is discussed. 11 references