NEEDLE SHARING AND HIGH-RISK SEXUAL BEHAVIORS AMONG IV DRUG-USERS IN SOUTHERN THAILAND

This study sought to determine the prevalence of needle sharing and hi gh HIV risk sexual behaviors and to identify characteristics associate d with these practices in southern Thailand. Data were obtained using a structured questionnaire from 298 male intravenous drug users (IVDUs ) seen in a methadone clinic during the previous year, The prevalence of HIV was 37%, and that of needle-sharing in the preceding 6 months w as 45%, although only 10% claimed to have had unsafe sex with a casual partner or prostitute in the same period. Determinants for needle sha ring included shorter duration of drug injection, diminished knowledge of HIV prevention, a carefree attitude toward the risk of HIV infecti on, and lower levels of income. Young single IVDUs with a low knowledg e of HIV prevention were most likely not to use a condom. In conclusio n, needle sharing among the study subjects was still a common practice , whereas high HIV risk sexual behavior was not. Attitudinal change ma y be necessary to reduce needle-sharing behavior and not just informat ion on disease transmission.