Pubdate: Tue, 12 Aug 2003 Source: News Journal (DE) Copyright: 2003 The News Journal Contact: http://www.delawareonline.com/newsjournal/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/822 Author: Arnise Jackson Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v03.n1067.a04.html Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?137 (Needle Exchange) NEEDLE EXCHANGES HELP CURB DISEASE Needle exchange programs not only help decrease the rate of HIV but reduce the spread of hepatitis C. These programs also provide a bridge to get intravenous drug users into treatment. Politicians in this state need to regard needle exchange programs as saving lives. Delaware lacks drug treatment facilities to help addicts. We can implement needle exchange programs and at the same time increase state and federal funding to create long-term inpatient treatment programs. Long-term treatment is the most effective strategy to help reduce the number of drug users in this state. Arnise Jackson, Wilmington - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin