Harm reduction for substance abuse: Current status & prospect

Background:

HIV infections terribly increased in Taiwan since 2004. The number of new infected doubled annually and 70% of them was IDU. Therefore, a harm reduction program started in Taiwan to fight against HIV/AIDS since 2006.

Methods:

A harm reduction campaign, including methadone treatment, syringe exchange program, HIV screening and counselling services started in Taoyuan County, Taiwan in 2006. In addition, various health education programs designed for students, inmates, IDUs and general public were carried out simultaneously. Behavioral science survey was also implemented to evaluated the impact of harm reduction campaign.

Results:

In 2007, a total of 3,299 IDUs enrolled in methadone program; meanwhile 109 stations were set up to provided free syringes exchange and counselling. Through two year's efforts, the epidemic of HIV infection reversed dramatically in Taoyuan, Taiwan. In 2006, the number of HIV new infected decreased 43% in comparison with that in 2005�G furthermore, the number, decreased 44% in 2007 compared with that in 2006. In addition, the crime events related to drugs dropped significantly in recent two years.

Conclusions:

Harm reduction program is highly effective to prevent HIV infection and improve public security. Medical workers and pharmacists involved harm reduction program also show good support on this program. However, without IDUs' participation in strategies planning, the program in Taoyuan won't succeed.