How long have needle exchange programs been around?
In 1983, Jon Stuen-Parker, Yale student and former heroin user, began publicly distributing sterile needles to intravenous drug users in New Haven, CT.
How effective are needle exchange programs?
A study by the National Institutes of Health found that NEPs “show a reduction in risk behaviors as high as 80 percent in injecting drug users…” 15. NEP participants have been found five times more likely to enter drug treatment than those who had never used an exchange.
How many needle exchange programs are in the US?
There are about 200 needle-exchange programs in 33 states and the District of Columbia, according to the North American Syringe Exchange Network.
Which result has been demonstrated in needle exchange programs?
provide clear evidence that needle exchange programs decrease HIV infection rates," (p. 20) but that "the majority of studies of [program] clients demonstrate decreased risk of HIV drug risk behavior, but not decreased rates of HIV sex risk behavior'' (p.
How many countries have needle exchange programs?
90 countries
Needle-exchange programs are available in 90 countries around the world, and use different forms of distribution, ranging from mobile vans to home visits, with community pharmacies usually playing an important role in the program due to their accessibility in terms of opening hours and broad geographical distribution.May 12, 2020
What are the benefits of a syringe service program?
Syringe services programs can benefit communities and public safety by reducing needlestick injuries and overdose deaths, without increasing illegal injection of drugs or criminal activity.May 23, 2019
Does the US have needle exchange programs?
Needle exchanges are now legal in 28 states and GOP lawmakers in Florida, Missouri, Iowa and Arizona have introduced bills to legalize needle programs in their states as well, according to a report from Kaiser Health News.May 28, 2019
Are needle exchanges legal in the US?
At the federal level, needle exchanges aren't banned. But until as recently as 2016 federal dollars were not allowed to go to such programs. Now, legalization doesn't necessarily mean that needle exchanges can be easily opened and remain in place.Jun 22, 2018
Are needle exchange programs legal in Alabama?
Unfortunately, syringe exchange programs are not permitted in the state of Alabama and individuals are unable to purchase syringe in the pharmacy without a prescription. If you are a person who uses drugs in Alabama you may be able to access sterile syringes through online marketplaces like OTCwholesale.com.
What is the clean needle act?
AN ACT TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO ALERTS AN OFFICER OF THE PRESENCE OF A HYPODERMIC NEEDLE OR OTHER SHARP OBJECT POSSESSED BY THE PERSON PRIOR TO A SEARCH BY THE OFFICER SHALL NOT BE CHARGED WITH POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA FOR POSSESSION OF THE NEEDLE OR OTHER SHARP OBJECT. 2013: North Carolina, United States.Aug 5, 2016
Why do people oppose syringe exchange programs?
Constituents, too, are wary of needle exchange programs because they may believe the government is simply enabling addicts rather than helping them. Similarly, opponents believe that needle-exchange programs contradict efforts against the war on drugs, instead leading to a rise in drug abuse.Dec 1, 2019
What states have syringe service programs?
Data Table
| State | Syringe Exchange Program Legality (2021) |
|---|---|
| Hawaii | Syringe Exchange Programs are Legal |
| New Jersey | Syringe Exchange Programs are Legal |
| Kentucky | Syringe Exchange Programs are Legal |
| California | Syringe Exchange Programs are Legal |