AIDS and the Social Relations of Intravenous Drug Users

Abstract

Gauging the impact of AIDS on intravenous drug users requires analysis of the cultural, political, and racial contexts of American society in which drug use is embedded. Considerable variation in behavior among drug injectors and noninjectors in different cities over time further complicates an understanding of the dynamics of drug use. AIDS has prompted many IV drug users to change their behavior, though not all users have reduced the risks of transmitting HIV infection. While expanded harm-reduction strategies and drug abuse treatment systems may help limit the epidemic's spread, weak federal support, constrained hospital resources, and racial stigma inhibit more direct action needed to stem the negative social and personal consequences of drug use.