Theme: Epidemiology & Public Health Research Year: 2024
Background: Public discourse and research on people who use drugs (PWUD) often adopts a negative framework with focus on risk behaviors. However, research on naloxone distribution programs and drug checking programs suggests that PWUD may routinely provide peers with lifesaving care and support each other in engaging in safer injection practices. To inform harm reduction efforts at a local syringe services program (SSP), we examined the prevalence of help-giving behaviors among PWUD in New Haven, Connecticut.
Methods: We analyzed data from Project Needle Exchange Utilization Survey (NEXUS), a cross-sectional survey of PWUD recruited from SSPs in the US during 2021 to 2022. Descriptive statistics were performed for three help-giving behaviors (administration of Narcan to a peer during a witnessed overdose, notification of emergency services during a witnessed overdose, and procurement of sterile needles for peers).
Results: 206 of 309 individuals reported witnessing an overdose in the last 6 months. Of those who witnessed an overdose, 86% (178/206) reported seeking medical assistance during the last witnessed overdose. In the last 6 months, 218 of 309 reporting obtaining naloxone and 151 of 309 reported both obtaining naloxone and witnessing an overdose. 77% (116/151) reported administering naloxone to a peer in last 6 months. A cumulative 93% of those who witnessed a peer overdose in the last 6 months reported seeking medical assistance or providing naloxone. Separately, 162 individuals received sterile syringes from the SSP in last 30 days. Of these, 55% (88/162) obtained syringes for others with the intent to distribute or share.
Conclusion: Among PWUD connected with the local SSP in New Haven, the vast majority report help-giving behaviors. These findings highlight the significant mutual aid that occurs among communities of PWUD and the potential to promote harm reduction through supporting peer and community networks of care.
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