This volume addresses the interface of two major national problems: the epidemic of HIV-AIDS and the widespread use of illegal injection drugs. Should communities have the option of giving drug users sterile needles or bleach for cleaning needs in order to reduce the spread of HIV? Does needle distribution worsen the drug problem, as opponents of such programs argue? Do they reduce the spread of other serious diseases, such as hepatitis? Do they result in more used needles being carelessly discarded in the community? The panel takes a critical look at the available data on needle exchange and bleach distribution programs, reaches conclusions about their efficacy, and offers concrete recommendations for public policy to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS. The book includes current knowledge about the epidemiologies of HIV/AIDS and injection drug use; characteristics of needle exchange and bleach distribution programs and views on those programs from diverse community groups; and a discussion of laws designed to control possession of needles, their impact on needle sharing among injection drug users, and their implications for needle exchange programs.

The EMCDDA's 10th scientific monograph, entitled Harm reduction: evidence, impacts and challenges provides a comprehensive overview of the harm reduction field. Part I of the monograph looks back at the emergence of harm reduction approaches and their diffusion, and explores the concept from different perspectives, including international organisations, academic researchers and drug users. Part II is dedicated to current evidence and impacts of harm reduction and illustrates how the concept has broadened to cover a wide range of behaviours and harms. Part III addresses the current challenges and innovations in the field. The core audience of the monograph comprises policymakers, healthcare professionals working with drug users, as well as the wider interested public -- EU Bookshop.

A comprehensive guide for health care workers worldwide, especially in areas with few medical resources. Designed as a manual for people confronting the HIV epidemic in their communities, no medical or technical knowledge or prior training in HIV prevention and care of people with AIDS is required. Topics range from the biology of the virus to designing successful prevention programmes and writing grant proposals. Risk factors for infection are discussed and suggestions given of helpful methods for explaining them and assisting people to change their behaviour. Extensive discussions of complex medical treatments not available to 95 percent of the people in the world who have HIV are avoided, focusing instead on medical interventions available in less industrialized settings. Illustrations highlight important topics and increase the accessibility of the text. An appendix aimed at readers with medical training discusses common AIDS-related illnesses and their treatment.