NCJ Number
191733
Journal
Substance Use and Misuse Volume: 36 Issue: 6/7 Dated: 2001 Pages: 735-755
Date Published
2001
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This article explores tensions and barriers in HIV/AIDS prevention among African-American injection drug users.
Abstract
This article provides a forum for two groups of predominately African-American injection drug users to speak on what they believe to be successful HIV/AIDS programming. A total of 19 individuals participated in the focus groups. Data suggest that participants appeared to strongly favor harm-reduction approaches such as needle exchange and distribution programs, methadone clinics, and condom distribution programs. However, their desires contrast with the concerns of some within the larger African-American community. The African-American community generally views drug use with justifiable hostility: drug use and dealing have devastated many urban neighborhoods. They have been reluctant to associate themselves with persons with AIDS and have been similarly hesitant to address the issue in churches, mosques, and other public forums. Misconceptions about HIV/AIDS in the black community were initially rooted in the belief that AIDS was a problem confined to gay Caucasian men. Public health initiatives are held in high suspicion due to historic exploitation and discrimination. Many leaders in the community are generally skeptical about traditional public health approaches to the treatment of AIDS and are even more hostile toward harm-reduction approaches. A tension exists between the pragmatic desires of the injection drug user community and the suspicions and fears of many within black communities. A recommendation is that service providers seek out consumers by actively offering and/or providing services in the community, rather than waiting for consumers. Services should be offered by culturally and experientially similar peers (preferably of the same gender). Community-based services and education should be contextualized to address local community needs. Drug user treatment programs, particularly methadone treatment, should be readily available to drug users at low or no cost. Small group interactions, such as peer-led support groups, may serve to enhance a climate of education, support, and change. 27 references