Location: Chengdu

Situation:

In 2009, there were an estimated 740,000 people living with HIV in China. Intravenous drug users are the main risk group for HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, with needle sharing being the most widespread method of transmission in the country. It is in this context that, since 2005, and notably in Chengdu, Doctors of the World (DOW) ahs been running a harm reduction project to help injecting drug users.

Activities:

In partnership with the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) in the town of Chengdu, DOW is working in two drop-in centres (with needle exchange) located in Chengdua and Jinniu districts. The team provides drug users with injection kits and information materials related to drug use, while at the same time offering access to basic healthcare and psychological support. The continuation of this programme rests partly on the dedication of peer educators who lead educational sessions on health. DOW supports the development of this group with the aim of strengthening the involvement of each individual. By the end of November 2009, 2,608 users were enrolled in the two centres. At least 48,000 syringes were distributed each month in 2009.

Outlook:

DOW passed on the two reception centres and needle exchanges to CDC at the end of 2009, while still maintaining support for the local health entity over the first few months of 2010. An exploratory mission will take place in Chengdu on the access to and quality of methadone substitution programmes. DOW will continue its support for the peer educator organisation, San Ye Cao.