title: The process of safer crack use among women in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside.
abstract: In this article we discuss the findings from a grounded theory study in which we explored how women residing in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside (DTES) minimized some of the physical, psychological, and interpersonal harms associated with crack cocaine use, and identify the social, economic, and political factors that influence safer use. Data were collected over a 3-month period and involved group interviews with 27 women at an agency run by drug users in the DTES. A preliminary theory of safer crack use is discussed, consisting of the central phenomenon of caring for self and others. In addition, four thematic processes are described: (a) establishing a safe physical space, (b) building trusting relationships, (c) learning about safer crack use, and (d) accessing safer equipment. Implications of the findings are discussed in relation to supporting women's efforts and improving health outcomes.
authors.affiliation: University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
authors.forename: Ingrid E
authors.initials: IE
authors.lastname: Handlovsky
authors.forename: Vicky
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Bungay
authors.forename: Joy
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Johnson
authors.forename: J Craig
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Phillips
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001955:British Columbia; D019970:Cocaine-Related Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D016578:Crack Cocaine; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008875:Middle Aged; D014505:Urban Population; D016387:Women's Health
chemical_list: D016578:Crack Cocaine