High prevalence of HIV risk-behavior and the identification of predictors for sharing injecting materials among young drug users in Prague, Czech Republic.

This study is one of the first studies in the Czech Republic evaluating the extent of the HIV epidemic among drug users. Interview data on demographics, drug use, sexual practices, and HIV knowledge and risk perception were obtained from study participants and a saliva sample was obtained for an HIV antibody test. Although the HIV infection rate is low (0.2%), the prevalence of high risk behaviors, such as sharing injecting equipment and unsafe sexual practices, indicate a potential for rapid HIV spread in this high risk population. Preventive measures need to be targeted toward drug users, especially those of younger age and women.

[Laboratory indicators in drug addicts and tertiary prevention of narcotic dependence]. / Nekteré laboratorní ukazatele u toxikomanu a terciární prevence závislosti na opiátech.

BACKGROUND: The authors report on some laboratory indicators in opiate abusers dependent for prolonged periods on opiates. The objective of the study is a proposal for an examination pattern in adepts during oral substitution therapy and emphasis on the necessity of systematic follow up of the health status. METHODS AND RESULTS: In 27 opiate abusers with a varying period of dependence on opiates the hematology laboratory tests was assessed, plasma levels of some minerals, renal and hepatic functions, some enzymes and metabolic indicators and vitamin D metabolites. For statistical evaluation Student's t-test was used and simultaneous testing. CONCLUSIONS: Long-term opiate abuse damages in 30 and 35% resp. liver functions. Therefore vitamin D deficiency develops. The authors recommend to follow up the health status of opiate abusers during oral substitution treatment (tertiary prevention).