Distributing aluminium foil as harm reduction strategy among people who use drugs in prison

Drug use via inhalation substantially reduces the risk of overdose and blood borne infections when compared to parenteral consumption. In order to promote a change in consumption habits and provide a safe framework for inhalation consumption, the distribution of foil was introduced into the Catalan prison, Brians 1. The aim of this study was to know the perceptions of the people who participated in this program.

An exploratory qualitative study was carried out through semi-structured interviews with 18 users (11 men and 7 women, one of them transgender) aged between 23 and 55 years. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis methodology.

Users highlighted the fewer negative consequences arising from inhalation drug use with a foil kit, compared to other means available in prison. The kit was used for heroin consumption, as well as in the manufacture of hashish and crack pipes. Among users who normally injected, there was increased awareness of alternative means and a higher probability of drug use via the pulmonary route. All users reported having received health education and subsequent monitoring by the particular team in charge.

Foil distribution is a practical and effective harm reduction strategy in prisons. Going forward, it is necessary to extend this program to other prisons and diversify the kits so they can more broadly address inhalation drug use.