ABSTRACT
In the last 20 years, research on the determinants of the HIV epidemic among drug users has focused mainly on studies of risk behaviour for drug injection. Studies involving human behaviour present special methodological problems. This paper presents a review of 1) the most important features that make this field different from the study of blood-borne diseases in other populations, and 2) the basic variables used in epidemiology to analyse injecting risk behaviour. Alternatives to improve research planning and results are proposed based on collaborating with other disciplines and improving the methodological resources of epidemiology.
Subject(s)
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/drug therapy , Anti-HIV Agents/administration & dosage , HIV Infections/drug therapy , Infusions, Parenteral/adverse effects , Injections, Intravenous/adverse effects , Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/blood , Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/virology , Disease Transmission, Infectious/prevention & control , HIV Infections/blood , HIV Infections/virology , Humans , Risk Factors , Substance-Related DisordersABSTRACT
The aim of this work is to inform of the usefulness of the Drug Information Registry System as an important diagnostic source to evaluate drug dependence in Mexico City. A short description of the methodological frame of the system is included, some results are presented synthetically and the importance of these data as supporting material to define research and preventive program policies is discussed. The advantages of these systems are commented, especially in countries, such as Mexico, where notification of drug use is not obligatory.
