Change in HIV-antibody seroprevalence rates in i.v. drug dependent prisoners.
In 1985 a high HIV-seroprevalence (44.2%) was found in a cohort of parenteral drug addicted prisoners in Innsbruck, Austria. In a longitudinal study from March 1985 to March 1989 we investigated the epidemiology of HIV-infection as well as possible changes in the drug taking behaviour of this defined population at risk. During the study HIV-seroprevalence rates in drug dependent prisoners showed a statistical decrease to 30%. A concomitant increase in admission to any kind of therapy programmes as well as an increasing change from 'heavy use' (mainly taking heroin i.v.) to 'non-heavy use' (mainly taking drugs orally) could be noted. The influence of preventive measures, such as comprehensive AIDS-information, special therapy programmes including the methadone substitution programme, and the unrestricted availability of needles and syringes is discussed.
Sperner-Unterweger
B
B
Department of Psychiatry, Innsbruck University Clinics, Austria.
Fuchs
D
D
Fleischhacker
W W
WW
Hausen
A
A
Miller
C
C
Möst
J
J
Reibnegger
G
G
Werner
E R
ER
Dierich
M
M
Wachter
H
H
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001317:Austria / Q000453:epidemiology; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D015528:HIV Seroprevalence / Q000639:trends*; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008297:Male; D011329:Prisoners / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D015819:Substance Abuse, Intravenous / Q000150:complications* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000534:rehabilitation