Steroid users and the unique challenge they pose to needle and syringe program workers

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Drug Harm Reduction
• Social Science

Background:

• Needle and syringe programs (NSP) are vital for Australia's drug harm reduction.
• An increasing number of people who use steroids and other performance- and image-enhancing drugs (PIED) are accessing NSPs.
• Understanding NSP worker experiences with PIED users is crucial for effective service delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the experiences of NSP workers interacting with individuals using steroids and PIEDs.
• To identify challenges faced by NSP staff in supporting this client group.
• To inform harm reduction strategies for PIED users.

Main Methods:

• Purposive sampling was used to recruit 13 NSP workers.
• Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants.
• Interview data were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically.

Main Results:

• NSP workers reported insufficient knowledge regarding the substances PIED users inject.
• Staff were uncertain about the specific equipment needs of PIED users.
• Perceived differences between PIED users and other clients affected staff-client rapport.

Conclusions:

• PIED users present unique challenges for NSP workers due to distinct drug use patterns and substances.
• There is a notable knowledge gap within the NSP workforce concerning PIEDs.
• Enhanced workforce training and targeted engagement are necessary for effective PIED harm reduction.