NCJ Number
124045
Journal
Journal of Drug Issues Volume: 20 Issue: 2 Dated: (Spring 1990) Pages: 215-222
Date Published
1990
Length
8 pages
Annotation
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) instituted a longitudinal demonstration project in Miami to evaluate the effectiveness of risk reduction intervention in preventing the spread of AIDS among a target population, in this case, specific racial/ethnic subgroups of intravenous drug users (IVDUs) and their sexual partners. The major components of the program are the initial assessment, randomization into standard and enhanced intervention programs, and follow-up assessments.
Abstract
The initial assessment consists of a pre-test counseling session, an HIV-antibody test, and a detailed interview on drug use, needle use, and sexual practices, as well as AIDS knowledge, demographic factors, and health status. The standard intervention includes post-test counseling on HIV transmission and risk reduction measures. Information on drug treatment programs, counseling, hotlines, AIDS programs, social and health services, and other resources is provided. Enhanced intervention consists of three peer-counselor-led sessions totaling four hours of individual and group counseling. The first session initiates engagement with the counselor and includes a group discussion and film on AIDS. The second session provides information about safe sexual practices and needle cleaning, while the third session identifies risk and co-factors associated with AIDS and helps the participant develop and maintain a framework for risk reduction behaviors. Participants in both groups are contacted every six months for a follow-up interview surveying risk behavior. 1 table, 1 figure, 7 references. (Author abstract modified)