Injecting-related harm and treatment-seeking behaviour among injecting drug users.
OBJECTIVE
This study aims to identify the physical harm associated with injecting drug use and examine the treatment-seeking behaviour of injecting drug users (IDUs). Specific attention is given to the factors associated with presentation and non-presentation of injecting-related problems.


METHODS
Participants were interviewed by research staff using a semi-structured questionnaire, then physically examined by a medical team.


METHODS
Needles exchanges in Glasgow.


METHODS
One hundred and twelve injecting drug users.


RESULTS
Respondents' accounts of their current injecting-related problems were found to be consistent with the clinician's findings, suggesting that IDUs are able to self-diagnose injecting-related harm. However, almost three-quarters had not sought help for these problems. Qualitative data suggest the main reasons for non-presentation, or delayed presentation, of injecting-related problems are normalization of injecting-related harm and a reluctance to attend available services. Almost half of those seeking treatment for injecting-related problems did so during an emergency or crisis.


CONCLUSIONS
Low threshold services, such as needle exchanges, may have to take a more proactive stance to encourage injectors to present with injecting-related problems. This may help reduce injecting-related harms, especially the resulting medical complications, which would in turn relieve the pressure on other services such as hospital Accident and Emergency Departments.
Morrison
A
A
HIV and Addictions Resource Centre, Ruchill Hospital, Glasgow, UK.
Elliott
L
L
Gruer
L
L
D000038:Abscess / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008691:Methadone / Q000627:therapeutic use; D009294:Narcotics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018671:Needle-Exchange Programs; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D015819:Substance Abuse, Intravenous / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy
D009294:Narcotics; D008691:Methadone