Proponents of needle exchange site several reasons why the federal government should get involved and offer funding for such programs.
- Data shows that upwards of 90 percent of heterosexually transmitted HIV is related to IV drug use and the sharing of dirty needles.
- Data shows that in several communities in the US and around the world, HIV transmission has increased where needle sharing and injecting drug use is common.
- Many studies have proven that needle exchange programs lead to decreased rate of HIV transmission among IV drug users.
- Studies have concluded that needle exchange does not increase the incidence of IV drug use.
- Some studies have shown that entrance into drug treatment programs are increased in the presence of needle exchange programs.
Opponents of federally funded needle exchange point out several concerns.
- Funding needle exchange programs sends the "wrong message" to children.
- Clean needle exchange will lead to an increase in IV drug use among populations already ravaged by recreational drug use.
- Federal funding of exchange programs would allow tax dollars to be used to increase the amount of drug paraphernalia in areas already overburdened with IV drug use.
- Distributing drug paraphernalia is in stark contrast to the accepted morals of our culture.
Where It Stands
While acceptance and funding of needle exchange programs has continued in the private sector as well as the state and local level, the federal government continues to balk at offering funding of any sort. Yet, studies continue to show that needle exchange programs are successful in decreasing HIV transmission. So the debate continues.
