NCJ Number
129867
Date Published
1991
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This report provides an updated review of the transmission of AIDS through intravenous drug use in Europe and the means used in various countries to prevent the spread of AIDS.
Abstract
The report includes statistics on HIV infection among drug abusers, drug abuse, prevention strategies, and training programs for drug workers. Data from the World Health Organization indicates the continuing rapid spread of HIV infection among drug abusers. This report notes the need for an immediate expansion of AIDS prevention programs and treatment facilities at international, national, and local levels. Intravenous drug abusers as a risk group constitute 32 percent of the 35,156 cases of AIDS reported from 32 European countries up to May 23, 1990. The lowest among several predictive models shows 13,000 new cases of AIDS in this risk group before the end of 1991. Tests for HIV seropositivity among drug abusers are now standard in most countries. The test is usually offered to all who contact service agencies. This report's review of measures to prevent HIV infection among drug abusers examines the extent to which selected European countries have developed preventive programs of educational outreach, needle and syringe exchange, specific subgroups of drug abusers (prison inmates and prostitutes), the substitution of prescribed drugs for illegally injected drugs, and training programs for drug treatment staff. 4 tables and 4 references