Objective: To measure HIV prevalence and characterize associated
risk behaviors among injection drug users (IDU) upon detention in
Tehran, Iran.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey included 459 male IDU arrested
by police during a police sweep in Tehran in 2006. A questionnaire
was completed, and blood was collected for HIV testing.
Results: Overall HIV prevalence was 24.4% (95% confidence
interval 20.5–28.6). Factors independently associated with HIV
infection included history of using an opioid in jail (adjusted odds
ratio 2.11, 95% confidence interval 1.26–3.53) and older age (adjusted
odds ratio 2.79 for 25–34, 3.01 for 35–44, 4.62 for $ 45 yr).
Conclusions: This study supports that incarceration is contributing
to the increased spread of HIV. Harm reduction programs should be
urgently expanded, particularly among incarcerated IDU.
کلید واژگان :
HIV, injection drug users, prevalence, risk factors, Iran
