Risk Correlates of Prevalent HIV, Hepatitis B Virus, and Hepatitis C Virus Infections Among Noninjecting Heroin Users (original) (raw)

This research analyzes the prevalence of HIV, Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infections among noninjecting heroin users (NIUs), stressing their distinct risk factors despite primarily using non-injection methods. The study highlights that many NIUs are former injectors or may engage in risky sexual behaviors that elevate their likelihood of infection. A significant sample size reveals that lifetime injection, sharing syringes, and duration of sexual activity are key correlates for infection among NIUs, underscoring the necessity for targeted interventions to extend harm reduction strategies towards this high-risk population.