Acceptance of HIV-antibody testing by persons seeking outpatient treatment for cocaine abuse

Abstract

One hundred of 101 applicants for outpatient treatment for cocaine abuse consented to voluntary HIV-antibody testing when the testing was offered as an option within the medical assessment at intake. Twelve applicants tested HIV-antibody positive; eight of these had injected drugs parenterally with syringes and needles used by other addicts and four had never taken drugs intravenously. There were no significant differences between HIV-antibody positive and negative applicants regarding the percentages who completed the evaluation, began treatment, and completed four weeks of treatment. A subgroup of 48 patients were interviewed regarding their knowledge of HIV infection, AIDS, and risk factors associated with transmission of HIV. All 48 patients had heard of HIV, AIDS, and recommendations that they use condoms as well as clean syringes and needles. None of the 48 patients reported that they used condoms; 10 reported reduced sexual activity and number of sexual partners; and none of those who shared needles reported that they had discontinued sharing other addicts' drug paraphernalia. The authors conclude that on-site, voluntary HIV-antibody testing for drug abusing patients entering treatment appears feasible and is not a deterrent to persons entering and continuing in treatment for drug abuse. The finding that persons at risk for HIV infection have knowledge of risk factors and have not changed risk-taking behaviors associated with HIV contagion points out the urgent need for further education and counseling.