| Author/Editor | Nolimal, Dušan | |
| Title | Qualitative study of injecting drug users in Ljubljana: qualitative research report | |
| Type | monografija | |
| Publisher | Joint Pompidou group | |
| Publication year | 2000 | |
| Volume | str. 46 | |
| Language | eng | |
| Abstract | The study was designed to gain in-depth information from drug misusers in Ljubljana about a range of injecting - and sexual-related HIV risks. Drug scenes, networks, some other environmental risk factors and treatment-seeking behaviour were also studied. The aim was to generate information to complement quantitative data to be used to inform public policy and interventions. Data collection involved quantitative questionnaires (N=95) on the extent of risk - taking behaviours, direct (participant) observation, in -depth interviews (N=21) and document analysis. Seventy-eight per cent of the first sample and 81% of the second reported some risk-taking behaviours related to injecting and/or sexual practices. In this report, key findings are presented in three areas: the perception of risk and risk-taking behaviours, drug scenes, networks and environmental factors; and treatment-seeking behaviour.What was considered by IDUs to be "safe" behaviour was clearly context dependent. What were considered as "acceptable" risks depended both on individual beliefs and social context. There was considerably higher awareness of the risks related to injecting than to unprotected sex. Examining risk-taking behaviour and the context of drug injecting has helped to inform our understanding of factors which may influence the possible sperad of HIV infection among this population. This study can assist in understanding why harm reduction interventions might be the most effective response to reduce risk-taking behaviour among IDUs in the city. It can also help professionals to be more sensitive to IDUs personal circumstances and the local context in order that they can tailor interventions in more effective way. This study has already raised a wide range of questions which call for interventions and further research. (Abstract truncated at 2000 characters.) | |
| Descriptors | SUBSTANCE ABUSE, INTRAVENOUS SUBSTANCE ABUSE BEHAVIOR, ADDICTIVE HIV INFECTIONS NEEDLE-EXCHANGE PROGRAMS AGE FACTORS NEEDLE SHARING QUESTIONNAIRES HEROIN DEPENDENCE RISK FACTORS ALCOHOL DRINKING METHADONE SEX FACTORS |