| Background: The concept of "windows of opportunity" in drug abuse treatment has received some attention but has yet to be fully explored. Some research suggests that major life transitions such as pregnancy, incarceration, or diagnosis of terminal illness provide an opening for effective drug abuse intervention. This study examines the changes in patterns of drug use following the window of opportunity for making life changes provided by testing HIV positive. Methods: Using snowball sampling techniques, street outreach was used to recruit 1151 active injection drug users (IDUs) not-in-drug treatment and their sex and needle partners for HIV counseling, testing, and partner notification. Of the sample, 166 tested HIV sero-positive. 100 were re-interviewed in-depth after 3 or more months concerning their drug use, sexual practices, and interpersonal relationships. Findings: Testing HIV positive can pose a wake-up call for change. After initial increase, illicit drug use among IDUs tends to decrease or even cease. HIV risk behavior including injection drug use, needle sharing, and unprotected sexual activity typically diminish. Conclusions: The period following HIV sero-conversion seems to provide an opportunity for treatment intervention. Coping with a positive HIV status can produce lifestyle changes that facilitate effective treatment. |
Updated 05/20/2006