The feasibility of a syringe-needle-exchange program in Vietnam

Since the beginning of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, syringe-exchange programs have been established in a number of developed countries and have proven effective in reducing the transmission of HIV. Very few similar programs have been established in developing countries. This study reports on the feasibility of establishing a syringe-exchange program in Vietnam. Process data collected since the beginning of the program indicate the feasibility of establishing such a program as well as highlight a number of important issues. These issues are: 1) Acceptability of the program in the community which has been achieved through workshops with key community people including the local police; 2) training and recruitment of ex-user outreach workers; 3) the distribution of clean syringes and needles through outreach services rather than at established exchange sites; 4) the establishment of appropriate methods for the collection of used injection equipment. Further research is needed to examine the efficacy of the program in reducing risks and acceptability of the program in the larger society.