What is the primary goal of the needle-exchange program?

The primary goal of a needle-exchange program is to reduce the transmission of HIV and other infections among individuals who use intravenous drugs. These programs provide access to clean, sterile needles and syringes, which helps minimize the risk of sharing contaminated equipment—a significant risk factor for the spread of bloodborne diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C. By lowering the incidence of these infections, needle-exchange programs play a crucial role in protecting public health and aiding in the management of infectious diseases within communities.

While promoting drug rehabilitation and providing education about drug use are important aspects of comprehensive drug policy, they are not the main focus of needle-exchange programs. The primary aim is to create a safer environment for individuals who inject drugs and ultimately decrease the health risks associated with needle-sharing practices. Eliminating the use of needles entirely is not considered a practical goal, given that many individuals may continue to use drugs. Instead, the priority is on harm reduction, which recognizes the importance of carefully managing existing risky behaviors while working towards healthier outcomes.