The viruses HIV and Hepatitis C are two of the world's most prevalent healthcare crises, perpetuated significantly by illegal drug use as well as alcohol consumption.
When most people think of the HIV and Hepatitis C viruses in relation to drug use, they automatically think of IV (intravenous) drugs like heroin as the primary culprit. Although IV drug use is a major contributor to the spread of these and other blood borne infections, it is not the only way that drug and alcohol abuse help proliferate these diseases. Whether it be through alternate modes of transmission or through less direct means, the use and abuse of mind altering substances puts many in situations which leave them at much higher risk for contracting one of these deadly viruses.
IV drug use, most often the injection of heroin or cocaine (commonly referred to as “booting”), is of most concern because of the direct contact with blood. Because of the lack of availability of needles for injection, addicts often “share” and re-use needles over and over. Despite attempts from numerous organizations to educate potential addicts on basic needle cleaning methods, addicts often resort to rinsing their syringes out with water – which does not reduce the risk of transmitting the HIV or Hepatitis C virus.
At the very least, the entire syringe assembly must be cleaned properly with bleach and thoroughly rinsed before re-use. The only way to ensure a virus-free needle is a fresh, sterile syringe. Many involved in harm reduction are proponents of needle exchanges, which are sites where IV drug users may access clean needles.
A less frequently considered mode of transmission that is related to drug use is sharing straws or bills when “snorting” or ingesting substances nasally. In other words, if Jim has Hep-C, does a line of coke, and passes the straw to Bob, now Bob will be at risk for contracting the disease. The risks depend on certain factors, such as the condition of the inside of the nose (which would be affected by frequency of use). The thin, fragile blood vessels on the inside of the nose are easily corroded, and it does not take visible amounts of a virus to spread it.
In a less direct way, the socio-economic relationship between drug/alcohol abuse and prostitution has an effect on the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C. In desperation to get money or trade for drugs and other resources, drug addicted women and girls are at extremely high risk for contracting these viruses, especially when the higher rate of unprotected and violent sex is considered.
Many drugs, including alcohol, decrease inhibitions and good judgment, and increase the risk of promiscuity. Lack of sound reasoning lowers the chances that barrier methods (such as condoms) preventing disease transmission will be used. While under the influence, people who would otherwise never put themselves at risk in such ways may find themselves in unsafe situations where the likelihood of contracting HIV is higher.
