Grant: Catalyst Grant: HIV/AIDS CBR Program - General Stream

Injection drug use has been identified as a primary risk factor for HIV/AIDS. There is growing evidence that HIV/AIDS thrives in certain environments and under particular conditions. However, initiation of initiatives such as Needle exchanges and Supervised injection sites are often the source of controversy that affect implementation despite abundant evidence as to the effectiveness of such initiatives in the prevention of HIV/AIDS.. The purpose of this research is undertaken beginning exploration of the social, political, historical and economic factors that shape community responses to HIV/AIDS prevention initiatives associated with injection drug use. We will undertake a case study in one community to examine support and opposition to implementation of HIV/AIDS prevention strategies. The findings of this research should provide beginning insight into community action and initiatives to prevent transmission of HIV/AIDS associated with injection drug use.