Pubdate: Tue, 12 Apr 2005
Source: Calgary Sun, The (CN AB)
Copyright: 2005 The Calgary Sun
Contact:  http://www.fyicalgary.com/calsun.shtml
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/67
Author: Robert Sharpe
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v05/n575/a08.html?47311
Note: Parenthetical remark by the Sun editor, headline by newshawk.

PREVENTABLE PUBLIC HEALTH CRISIS

RE: "PIPE-DREAM solution," (April 8). Before Jose Rodriguez condemns harm 
reduction interventions like safe crack kits, he should consider the 
experience of Canada's southern neighbour. U.S. Centers for Disease Control 
researchers estimate that 57% of AIDS cases among women and 36% of overall 
AIDS cases in the U.S. are linked to injection drug use or sex with 
partners who inject drugs. This easily preventable public health crisis is 
a direct result of zero-tolerance laws that restrict access to clean 
syringes. Can Canada afford to emulate the harm maximization policies of 
the former land of the free and current record holder in citizens incarcerated?

Robert Sharpe,

policy analyst

Common Sense for Drug Policy

Washington, D.C.

(Crack addicts share their pipes because they can't finish their whole hit, 
not because they're generous.)
- ---
MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom