Can Public Policies Limit the Spread of HIV among IV Drug Users?

Abstract

Given a rapid rise in the incidence of HIV as a result of needle sharing among IV drug users (IVDUs), public health officials and policymakers have been developing innovative programs to slow the spread of the epidemic in this population. While the response in some areas has been punitive, more typically programs have been developed to reduce the demand for drugs, increase the supply of needles, or teach IVDUs how to sterilize their needles. Street outreach programs to do the latter require cultural sensitivity. However, in many areas, needle sharing practices are changing slowly, and the risk of further spread of the epidemic to sexual partners of IVDUs is going unaddressed. The epidemic heightens the need to re-examine the marginalization of IVDUs.