This information sheet supports the use of syringe exchange programs (SEPs) for injecting drug users, who will not or cannot stop injecting drugs, as one method of lowering the risk of IDUs acquiring or transmitting HIV. SEPs allow IDUs to safely dispose of used syringes and obtain sterile ones at no cost and offer prevention and health care education and services. The information sheet discusses the public health impact of SEPs and considers the challenges for SEPs and ways of supporting access to sterile syringes through SEPs.
Audiences:
LGBT Populations
Drug Abuse Treatment Personnel
Health Planners
Legislators
Nurses
Pharmacists
Physicians
Focus Area:
HIV and AIDS
Topics/Subjects:
Prevention
Substance Abuse
Subjects:
Injecting Drug Use
Legislation/Regulation
Needle Exchange or Needle Distribution
Publication Date:
2000
Series:
Access to Sterile Syringes Series
Format:
Information Sheet
2 p.: b&w; refs.