HIV transmission among drug users in Larkana, Pakistan
ur Rehman, N.; Emmanuel, F.; Akhtar, S.
Tropical Doctor 37(1): 58-59
2007
ISSN/ISBN: 0049-4755 PMID: 17326898 DOI: 10.1258/004947507779952096Document Number: 554009
During a routine surveillance programme, 17 of 183 drug users in Larkana, Pakistan were found to be HIV-positive. To investigate the factors associated with this rapid transmission of HIV, a case-control study was conducted. Seven HIV-positive male heroin users (mean age, 31.6+or-7.9 years) and 14 HIV-negative male heroin users (controls; mean age, 33.9+or-10.2 years) were recruited. Univariate logistic regression analysis of the data showed that injection drug use in groups, sharing of syringes, sex with commercial sex workers, having multiple sexual partners, and early initiation of sexual activity were associated with HIV seropositivity among heroin addicts.