1. [Drugs, Poverty and HIV: results regarding a provincial needle exchange program in Point de Repères, Quebec].
- Author
-
Bélanger D, Noël L, Alary M, Parent R, Poulin C, and Claessens C
- Subjects
- Female, HIV Infections epidemiology, Humans, Male, Multivariate Analysis, Needle-Exchange Programs organization & administration, Poverty statistics & numerical data, Quebec epidemiology, Sexual Behavior, Socioeconomic Factors, Substance Abuse, Intravenous epidemiology, Time Factors, Community Participation statistics & numerical data, Needle-Exchange Programs statistics & numerical data
- Abstract
In this study (n = 200), the characteristics of IDUs participating in a provincial needle exchange program (NEP) for more than 2 years (> 2 years) were compared with those of IDUs having participated for less than 2 years (< or = 2 years). Compared to the < or = 2 years, the > 2 years were more often recipients of welfare (RC: 4.7), especially among the HIV-positive (RC: 62.0); tried quitting drugs more frequently (RC: 3.8); more often recommended the NEP to other IDUs (RC: 3.1); and more often requested being given shelter and longer opening hours (RC: 3.6). These results highlight the urgent need to improve and develop transitional and support services for the > 2 years. Preventive interventions that would reach out to the < or = 2 years where they live should also be implemented in close collaboration with organizations involved in mental health and drug use prevention.
- Published
- 2000