ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the relation between year of recruitment into an AIDS prevention project and likelihood of engaging (yes/no) in injection risk behaviors. METHODS: In total, 834 injection drug users were recruited over a 44-month period (January 1992-August 1995) in New York City. Logistic regression was used to examine trends in three behaviors, across four successive annual cohorts: using needles/syringes that were previously used by another person, using injection supplies (e.g., cookers, cotton, rinse water) that had been previously used, and giving or lending of used needles/syringes to another person. RESULTS: Significant (p < .0001) decreasing trends occurred in two behaviors: giving or lending of used needles/syringes to another person and use of injection supplies that had been used by another person. Sample characteristics were generally consistent over time and did not obviate significant injection risk trends. CONCLUSIONS: Decreasing trends in injection risk behaviors could not be explained by changing sample characteristics. Even though some injectors report engaging in risky injection practices, the confluence of numerous AIDS prevention efforts in the 1990s has contributed to an overall reduction in the likelihood of such behaviors.
Subject(s)
Risk-Taking , Substance Abuse, Intravenous/psychology , Adult , Female , Humans , Logistic Models , Male , New York CityABSTRACT
This study assessed gender differences in drug use, HIV risk, and health status in a sample of urban crack users. Using targeted sampling, 1434 crack users (66% male and primarily African-American and Puerto Rican), were recruited from the streets of East Harlem, New York City. A standardized, structured interview was administered, drug use was validated by urinalysis, and HIV testing was offered. Gender differences were observed on sociodemographic variables and patterns of drug use. Other than welfare, men and women cited different major sources of income. Women reported greater use of crack, and men were more likely to use injection drugs as well as crack. Data on sexual risk indicated that women had more sexual partners than men, but the percentage of unprotected vaginal sex for both men and women was greater for those who did not exchange sex for drugs and/or money. The number of persons already infected with HIV was substantial. Many reported histories of other sexually transmitted diseases which were generally higher among men. Future research should investigate the relationship between gender and other factors (e.g., ethnicity, geographic location) associated with HIV risk.
