Benefits of The Needle Syringe Program
The Needle Syringe Program one of the
most effective Public Health initiatives developed in the last fifty years
Saving Lives
In Australia an estimated 5,000 lives will be saved by 2010
Prevention of the transmission of HIV:
An estimated 25,000 cases of HIV were avoided between 1990 and 2000
Cost savings:
Investment: nearly $150 million
Estimated return: between $2.4 and 7.8 billion
Prevention of the transmission of Hepatitis C:
An estimated 21,000 cases of Hepatitis C were avoided
Gateway into rehabilitation:
NSPs provide a referal point and into addiction treatment and other health care services
No increase in injecting drug use:
Scientific evidence shows no increase of injecting drug use due to the NSP. Far from encouraging drug use the NSP has a significant role in facilitating entry into treatment
Disposal of used needles:
The NSP offers a useful disposal strategy for used injecting equipment and is actively involved in the removal of discarded syringes from communal settings
A recent review of the scientific evidence for and against the NSP produced consistent and absolutely compelling data that can leave no doubt about the effectiveness of the program.
For more information about the NSP:
Return on Investment in Needle and Syringe Programs in Australia
NSP: a Review of Evidence
NSP: Your Questions Answered
ANCD Position Statement on NSPs