More research needed on effectiveness of harm reduction interventions

A new study is out that seeks to "review the evidence on the effectiveness of harm reduction interventions involving the provision of sterile injecting equipment in the prevention of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission among injecting drug users (IDUs)."

The study concludes: "The evidence is weaker than given credit for in the literature. The lack of evidence for effectiveness of NSP vis-à-vis biological outcomes (HCV and HIV incidence/prevalence) reflects the limitations of studies that have been undertaken to investigate these associations. Particularly for HCV, low levels of IRB may be insufficient to reduce high levels of transmission. New studies are required to identify the intervention coverage necessary to achieve sustained changes in blood-borne virus transmission."

PSI should be trying to fill the gap that exists in research and data to show the link between exposure to harm reduction interventions and behavioral and biological outcomes, esp. reduction in HIV incidence.

For the full report, go to:
http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/123307018/abstract?SRETRY=0

Rob